Waco · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Waco public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Administrative Plan Amendments
The housing authority is proposing updates to its Section 8 Administrative Plan to streamline operations and ensure compliance. These changes affect local voucher holders and landlords participating in the program.
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.
Animal Shelter Capacity and Operations Review
Local rescue advocates and residents spoke out about an overwhelming crisis of stray, dumped, and chained animals in Waco, pointing out understaffed animal control services and long wait times for owner surrenders.
FY 2027 Annual Operating Budget
The city council adopted the annual municipal budget for FY 2027 and set a property tax rate of $0.755000 per $100 valuation, resulting in a slight decrease for median homestead tax bills.
Museum Capital Improvements
The advisory board is reviewing architectural concepts and a $10 million state funding expenditure plan due to the Texas Department of Public Safety in November. These funds will target museum upgrades, life-safety improvements, and exhibit enhancements.
Placemaker Pro Mixed-Use Development Project
Placemaker Pro sought $3,480,131 in TIF and housing funds to support a major mixed-use project featuring 150 residential units and 9 commercial spaces.
Downtown Revitalization
Waco is modernizing its downtown zoning laws by establishing a new Form-Based Code district across 88.55 acres. This shift helps shape building aesthetics, pedestrian pathways, and mixed-use development to foster a more vibrant, walkable city center.
Speegleville Road Bridge Replacement
The city awarded a $12.8 million contract to replace the aging Speegleville Road bridge over the Middle Bosque River. Funded in part by federal appropriations, the project will widen the road to four lanes while working to minimize traffic disruptions during construction.
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.
Barron's Branch Public Improvements and Master Development Agreement
The council approved a master development agreement with Hunt Development Group worth up to $183.8 million to advance downtown revitalization and park infrastructure.
Downtown Redevelopment Project & Master Development Agreement
The council approved a master development agreement with Hunt Development Group worth up to $183.8 million to advance downtown revitalization and park infrastructure.
Downtown Redevelopment Infrastructure
Get ready, Waco! Downtown is about to get a major glow-up with a big redevelopment project. Think new construction and a spruced-up Riverwalk. Big changes are coming!
Annexation of Buster Chatham Road Property for Future Utility Planning
Residents expressed strong opposition to the voluntary annexation of city-owned land near Buster Chatham Road, citing concerns over future wastewater treatment plant plans and river health.
Cameron Park Zoo Infrastructure and Facility Upgrades
The commission was scheduled to discuss preparations for the upcoming Association of Zoos and Aquariums accreditation inspection, which ensures the facility meets high standards of animal care and management.
Data Center Development Concerns
Multiple residents voiced strong opposition during the hearing of visitors regarding a proposed mega data center in nearby Ross, citing concerns over water consumption, energy use, noise, and heat.
Facility Safety and Fire Protection
Waco's Fire Station #4 is getting a major upgrade with new construction starting soon. This means faster emergency responses for residents.
Severe Weather Response
Waco is opening up warming centers to keep residents safe and warm this winter. It's a proactive move to ensure everyone has a place to go when the temperatures drop.
2026-2027 HUD Annual Action Plan Funding
The board is reviewing the 2026 Annual Plan before sending it off to federal housing officials.
Wastewater Treatment Plant Siting
Waco's got a shiny new solid waste transfer station and landfill! This upgrade is all about making trash disposal smoother and cleaner for everyone in the city.
Employee Health Insurance Plan Adjustments & Shortfall
Rising medical and prescription costs are threatening a $4 million shortfall in the city's health fund. HR is proposing a 7% employee premium bump and dropping weight-loss drugs for non-diabetic use to balance the budget.