During a recent government meeting, city officials discussed the upcoming budget and tax rate for the fiscal year, highlighting a proposed tax rate that remains unchanged from 2024. Budget Manager Alyssa Coppins presented the budget, emphasizing that the city has maintained a 44 basis point reduction in the tax rate over the past two years. The proposed budget allocates 23% of the total tax bill to city services, including public safety and infrastructure maintenance, while also noting that the city's tax rate is significantly lower than that of comparable Texas cities.

Coppins outlined that the largest portion of the budget for 2025 is dedicated to infrastructure improvements, particularly for water services and road maintenance. A notable project is the second phase of the Beal Park project, estimated at $18 million. The overall general fund budget reflects a 5.3% increase, with significant investments in public safety services.

Following the budget discussion, Justine Ruff, the director of airports, presented a five-year capital improvement plan for the airport. Key projects include a $38 million terminal modernization project aimed at expanding the TSA checkpoint to alleviate long wait times for passengers. Ruff noted that the airport is competing for grants to fund these improvements, with a recent $3 million bipartisan infrastructure grant already secured.

Ruff also addressed the need for infrastructure upgrades at Midland Air Park, including the addition of hangar space and improved taxiways. The airport's funding model is shifting to ensure self-sufficiency, with plans to increase fees for airlines to align with industry standards. This change aims to enhance the airport's financial stability while improving the overall passenger experience.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to transparency, as the presentation slides will be made available to the public, ensuring that citizens are informed about the city's financial planning and infrastructure projects.