Irving council schedules final budget adoption hearing after public comments on libraries, shelter and arts cuts

The Irving City Council approved a resolution to consider adopting the City of Irving fiscal year 2025–26 budget at a Sept. 18 meeting after an evening of public comments on July 5 that focused on library protections, funding for an emergency shelter and staffing at the Irving Arts Center.

During the public hearing portion on the proposed budget, residents urged council to maintain library funds and resist efforts to limit access to library materials. "This right here, the prejudice couched in pearl‑clutching concerns is actually how you hurt kids," said Christy Betts, a former kindergarten and pre‑K educator in Irving ISD, arguing opponents’ proposals were rooted in fear and would marginalize queer families and young readers.

Speakers also urged the council to allocate $100,000 for an inclement‑weather shelter. "The shelter is not just a line item on the budget. It's a lifeline," said volunteer April Sanderson, who urged the council to approve the allocation for this winter. Laura Anderson reiterated the request and additionally urged $30,000 for a homeless‑systems mapping workshop and emergency shelter support for domestic‑violence survivors without children.

Arts center staff and users criticized management and the department’s handling of an anticipated funding change. Jessica Lesser said a $1,600,000 reduction described by staff was not part of the operating budget but related to a 10‑year grant that had a scheduled end; she told council the department had not prepared adequately for the change. Staff member Chris Ospina alleged managers offered contractors in place of workers, and claimed the arts center director "Todd" had received about a $24,000 raise while some staff reported large declines in annual pay. "This is an abysmal display of leadership," Ospina said, calling on the council to consider the management record when appointing new board members.

A resident speaking about staffing and city costs also urged the council to review city headcount and examine where positions could be reduced or automated.

On the tax rate, one speaker noted rising property values and suggested the city lower the rate from the figure he cited as 5.891 to 5.385 as a signal to taxpayers.

After public comment, the council moved to adopt a resolution expressing intent to consider formally adopting the FY25–26 budget on Sept. 18. The motion was moved and seconded and, according to the meeting chair, "passes unanimously." The transcript does not record who moved or seconded the motion or the specific vote tally.

Council members and staff noted that recently completed collective bargaining will require adjustments to the proposed budget and that the Sept. 18 agenda will include the detailed discussion of the $100,000 shelter contribution.

The council adjourned after approving the resolution; the budget adoption hearing is scheduled for Sept. 18.