Rio Grande City EDC reports stronger-than-expected sales-tax revenue as fiscal year begins

EDC staff told the Rio Grande City Economic Development Corporation on the meeting that city sales-tax collections for the month totaled 305,847, which staff described as “a 16% increase compared to the same month last year.” The report listed year-to-date sales-tax receipts at 551,441 and noted those receipts represent roughly 26.5% of the annual figure shown in the packet (2,081,930 as presented).

The staff presenter said expenditures for fiscal year 2025–26 stood at 230,724, about 11% of the approved budget, and described the organization’s financial position as "strong in the first quarter heading into fiscal year 2025–26." The staff also clarified that the figures presented were for November revenue that the city received in January 2026.

Board members pressed for context on the monthly peak. Members discussed prior high months (references during the meeting ranged between about $600,000 and $710,000 for previous November/December receipts) and one board member said he hoped the city could reach $800,000 in a future month given heavy retail activity cited in town (Walmart, H‑E‑B, Ross and local restaurants).

A staff representative answered specific line‑item questions about vendor payments, explaining that some smaller amounts on the expenditure list covered routine items such as a downtown welcome sign and communications services. The financial presentation closed with staff offering to take follow‑up questions and noting that details and line‑item backup were available in the meeting packet.

The board did not take any additional formal action on the financial report; staff will continue to present monthly updates as budget activity develops.