Stephens City council completes two readings of FY2026 budget; no tax increase proposed

Stephens City — On April 1, 2025, the Stephens City Town Council completed the first and second readings of an ordinance titled "An Ordinance to Adopt the Budget and Appropriations for Fiscal Year 2025‑2026." The clerk read the ordinance by title for both readings, and motions to accept each reading passed by recorded votes of council members present.

The Finance Committee reported the proposed budget does not include a tax increase. Councilman Linden A. Fravel, the Finance Committee chair, said the plan would adjust salaries to better align with neighboring municipalities and remain competitive. Town Treasurer Steve Rickards reported the town had a generally strong month but noted the utility fund was net negative in March due to a higher‑than‑average sewer bill; sales tax receipts were lower than average that month.

Committee materials discussed an 8% proposed increase to water and sewer rates and additional funding for the Fire Department. Council members did not receive public comment during the budget hearing; Mayor Michael A. Diaz opened and closed the public hearing with no speakers.

Both readings were approved with the recorded roll‑call votes shown in the minutes: L. Fravel—Aye; P. Fravel—Aye; Smith—Absent; Stevens—Aye; Swygert‑Smith—Aye; Woodruff—Aye. The minutes record motions to accept the first reading (moved by Linden A. Fravel) and the second reading (moved by Pete Fravel). The ordinance was read by Cailee Anderson, Town Clerk.

The council discussion and committee notes framed the budget around maintaining fiscal stability while addressing compensation and utility funding needs. No additional public comment or amendments were recorded during this meeting.