During the recent budget workshop held on August 2, 2025, the Haslet City Council addressed several key financial matters that will impact the community's growth and infrastructure. A significant focus was placed on the rising costs associated with city engineering services, which have increased from an anticipated $45,000 to $1.26 million. This unexpected rise is attributed to various special projects necessitated by the city's expansion and the unique challenges that arise in different neighborhoods, such as flooding issues on Shriver near James.
Council members discussed the need for a detailed breakdown of these special projects to better understand the financial implications and ensure transparency in budgeting. The engineering services budget is crucial for addressing unforeseen problems that arise as the city develops, highlighting the importance of proactive planning in municipal governance.
In addition to engineering concerns, the council proposed a budget allocation of $90,000 for an assistant finance director position, with half of the funding sourced from the general fund. This move is part of a succession plan aimed at preparing for future leadership transitions within the finance department. The current finance director emphasized the necessity of hiring someone with government accounting experience to manage the increasing complexities of city finances as Haslet continues to grow.
The discussions during the workshop underscored the city's commitment to addressing infrastructure needs and ensuring effective financial management as it navigates the challenges of growth. The council's proactive approach aims to equip Haslet for a sustainable future, ensuring that the community can adapt to both current and emerging needs.