Leon Valley adopts FY2025–26 budget and 0.54 tax rate to fund three firefighters; vote 4–1

After a lengthy public hearing and debate, the Leon Valley City Council on Sept. 16 adopted the fiscal 2025–26 budget and associated tax rate that the council framed as necessary to address public‑safety staffing shortfalls.

Mayor Chris Riley outlined recent budget work and options, saying earlier estimates ranged and that council direction led staff to present budgets tied to different rates. "At the 0.54 you are adding three firefighters," city staff explained during the presentation, describing equipment and training costs tied to the hires.

Public input: Several residents and speakers urged caution about raising taxes, particularly on seniors and residents with fixed incomes. "I would urge you to reconsider this," said longtime resident Will Bridal (on behalf of older residents), citing the disproportionate effect on those over 65. Others, including residents who had experienced slow emergency response in the past, argued the city needed more frontline staff.

Council action: Councilor Campos moved to adopt the budget and Councilor Roscoe seconded. On a recorded vote the budget passed 4–1 (Bolton — Yes; Heil — No; Campos — Yes; Orozco — Yes; Mersch — Yes). City staff documented that the budget change will raise property tax revenue compared with the prior year and that a portion of the increase was earmarked to recruit three firefighters and to support limited part‑time hour corrections elsewhere in the operating budget.

Next steps: The council scheduled the statutorily required second reading and tax‑rate adoption processes; staff will implement the budget and begin recruitment and equipment procurement required for the additional fire personnel.