Waco · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Waco public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Strong fiscal year for hotel occupancy tax collections
Hotel tax collections hit $7.88 million in FY26 — nearly 110% of target and 6% above the prior year — money that funds tourism marketing, the convention center, and local attractions. The FY27 target has been raised to $7.72 million.
FY 2026-2027 Operating Budget Approval
The board is scheduled to review and approve the operating budget for the upcoming fiscal year starting October 1, 2026.
FY2026 Financial Audit and Auditor Appointment
The board is reviewing the annual financial audit prepared by Forvis Mazars, LLP, and will consider appointing the firm for the upcoming 2026-2027 term. This ensures financial transparency and compliance with reporting requirements for the higher education authority.
City Attorney Personnel Review
The City Council is meeting to discuss personnel matters involving the City Attorney. This is a standard administrative review process.
FY 2026-2027 Property Tax Rate Adoption
The City Council finalized the property tax rate for the upcoming fiscal year at $0.755000 per $100 valuation. While the rate is unchanged from last year, property owners will experience an effective tax increase of 3.60 percent due to higher property appraisals.
Quarterly Investment Report
Finance officials reported on the city's $921.7 million investment portfolio, generating $8.4 million in interest income for the quarter.
Credit Card Convenience Fees
The city is looking at adding a 1.5% fee for paying with credit cards to offset the $1.3 million it currently spends on transaction fees. Residents can still use free options like cash, checks, or bank drafts.
Investment Advisory and Municipal Financial Products Contracts
Waco is changing up how it manages its nearly $1 billion portfolio and bond funds by bringing in specialized advisory firms to increase investment yields.
Student Loan Revenue Bonds and FFELP Asset Transactions
The board discussed resolutions regarding preparations for issuing student loan revenue bonds and managing transactions related to the BHEA 2011-2 Indenture and FFELP loan assets.
Municipal Leadership History
The council planned to review current city development projects and reflect on the leadership history of Waco's past and present elected officials and city managers.
Fiscal Year 2024-2025 External Audit
External auditors from Weaver & Tidwell gave Waco a glowing preliminary report, projecting clean opinions with zero material weaknesses or uncorrected misstatements.
McLennan County Election Costs and Legislative Updates
Senate Bill 2753 will overhaul early voting dates, polling place requirements, and result reporting procedures, creating logistical and staffing challenges for local election administrators.