Midlothian council adopts $67.7 million budget, keeps tax rate at 65¢ and ratifies revenue increase

The Midlothian City Council on Tuesday adopted the city’s fiscal 2025–26 operating budget and voted to keep the city property tax rate at 65¢ per $100 of assessed value, saying the combination funds planned services and capital projects while producing a higher total tax revenue than last year.

Anne, a city staff member presenting the budget, told the council the public‑hearing process complied with the local government code and included a taxpayer impact statement showing a median taxable homestead value of $334,099. “This public hearing provides an opportunity to communicate with interested persons regarding the proposed budgets before adoption,” Anne said.

The adopted budget appropriates $67,715,553 for the general fund and includes other fund totals the council reviewed, including a utility fund of $42,315,610, a Midlothian Economic Development (Type E) allocation of $2,433,789 and a Midlothian Community Development Corporation (Type B) allocation of $7,670,000. The council approved the budget by a 6–1 vote on the record; the tax rate ordinance passed unanimously on a subsequent record vote.

Why it matters: Council members stressed the tax‑rate decision balances rising property valuations with investments in infrastructure and debt service. The council also held a separate ratification vote required by state law because the adopted budget will raise more property tax revenue than the prior year.

Council discussion and context Ross, a council member, said residents should expect a modest increase in their bills despite the unchanged rate because valuations rose. “We’re adopting the same tax rate, but with those valuation increases, you may see a little bump there,” Ross said. He and other members said they want to examine strategies next year to avoid outpacing inflation in future tax…