During the City of Harlingen's Regular Commission Meeting on September 3, 2025, citizen concerns about rising property taxes took center stage, sparking a heated discussion about the city's financial management. Resident Robert Munoz voiced his frustrations regarding the city's tax increases, highlighting a significant $7 million rise in property taxes since Mayor Boswell took office in May 2022.

Munoz criticized the city’s claim of having the lowest property taxes in 27 years, arguing that despite a reduced tax rate, the overall tax burden has increased due to rising property valuations. He pointed out that the city has adopted substantial tax increases over the past few years, including a $1 million increase in the first year of the mayor's term, followed by increases of $1.8 million, $2.5 million, and $1.6 million in subsequent years.

The resident emphasized the need for transparency and accountability, questioning the allocation of funds, particularly in light of ongoing issues like potholes in local neighborhoods. Munoz urged the commission to prioritize infrastructure repairs over budget increases for travel and training expenses, which he noted had exceeded their budget by $13,000.

The meeting also featured a citizen communication segment, where residents were invited to address the commission, although the commission members did not respond to comments. This format allowed Munoz to express his concerns without immediate rebuttal, highlighting the ongoing tension between city officials and residents regarding fiscal policies.

As the city prepares for future budget discussions, the implications of Munoz's comments may resonate with other residents who share similar concerns about property taxes and city services. The commission's response to these issues will be closely watched as they navigate the complexities of city budgeting and community needs.