The City Council of Keene, Texas, convened on July 24, 2025, for a budget workshop focused on the Fiscal Year 2026 budget. The meeting addressed significant increases in departmental costs and the potential implications for local taxpayers.

The discussion began with an overview of projected budget increases across various departments. Notably, the Human Resources budget is expected to rise by $18,802, while the Police Department's budget is set to increase by $50,000. The Fire Rescue budget is projected to grow by $119,851, and Development Services, which encompasses economic development, may see an increase of up to $104,410. Collectively, these increases amount to an average rise of approximately $458,654 across the city's budget.

Council members expressed concerns regarding the financial implications of these increases, particularly in light of potential future requests for funding from the local school district. A proposed bill could require any property tax increases to be put to a public vote, a shift from previous practices where the council could unilaterally raise taxes. This change raises questions about how the council would respond if voters reject a tax increase, potentially leading to cuts in city services.

The council emphasized the need for careful consideration of these budgetary changes, recognizing that while costs are rising, the revenue from sources such as sales tax may not keep pace. The discussion highlighted the importance of transparency and communication with residents regarding potential tax increases and the necessity of balancing service costs with community needs.

As the meeting concluded, council members acknowledged the challenges ahead in managing the budget while ensuring the city can continue to provide essential services to its residents. The council plans to further explore these issues in upcoming sessions, aiming to develop a budget that reflects both fiscal responsibility and community priorities.