Balch Springs reviews 2026 budget outlook; staff flags tax roll protests and staffing needs

City staff presented an overview of the City of Balch Springs’ proposed fiscal 2025–26 budget at a July 28 council workshop, saying the city will present a formal proposed budget in August and hold public hearings and a tax-rate vote between August and September.

The presentation, given by an unnamed city staff member, outlined revenues and expenditures across the general fund and utility funds, discussed a certified appraisal roll of about $2.2 billion and a projected conservative tax collection rate because of anticipated protest activity, and identified near-term staffing priorities including additional code enforcement coverage, continued multifamily inspections, and a request to consider a pay adjustment at the animal shelter.

City staff said the certified appraisal roll shows a market value near $2.2 billion but noted “large protest activity” that could require returning some revenue. To avoid overestimating revenues, staff said the city will budget using a reduced collection rate for property taxes (staff stated they would “dropping our rate of collection to 68,” down from collection assumptions used last year). Staff also said…