Budget Prioritizes Public Safety, City Services And Infrastructure
The budget includes across-the-board employee pay raises, operating expenses for new facilities, and a healthy budget stabilization fund to protect the city's finances from economic uncertainties.
Mayor Turner's seventh balanced budget in as many years does not include a property tax rate increase or any deferrals, or one-time land sales. Based on a foundation of sound financial management and creating a more resilient city, the budget prioritizes public safety, service and infrastructure, and Complete Communities.
"The FY23 budget prioritizes city services and ensures that we place the greatest care on our most valuable asset as a city - our people," said Mayor Turner. "Fire fighters will gain a 6% increase, 4% for police, and 3% for municipal workers during the next fiscal year."
New facilities are accounted for in the FY2023 budget, including the Alief Neighborhood Center, the Dr. Shannon Walker Library, and a renovated Kendall Library.
These facilities will connect residents to services like After-School and Summer Enrichment Programs, sports and recreation leagues, and medical assistance and education programs to promote wellness and reduce and prevent chronic disease.
Mayor Turner also commits to improving public safety through the use of ARPA funding for the One Safe Houston initiative, a comprehensive violence reduction program linking research-based strategies to enhance public safety and reduce harm.
One Safe Houston targets four key areas:
- Violence Reduction and Crime Prevention
- Crisis Intervention, Response, and Recovery
- Youth Outreach Opportunities
- Key Community Partnerships
More information about the budget may be found at https://www.houstontx.gov/budget/23budprop/FY2023_Proposed_Budget.pdf.