The Waller County Commissioners Court Workshop held on August 6, 2025, focused on budgetary considerations and the implications of potential voter-approved tax increases. The meeting began with discussions on the limitations of budget increases, emphasizing that without voter approval, the budget would remain unchanged from the previous year. The maximum allowable increase without voter consent is capped at 3.5%, which could yield an additional $1.5 million for the county.

County officials highlighted the growing demands on services due to population growth, noting that requests from various departments are aimed at ensuring adequate staffing for essential services, including law enforcement and environmental inspections. The cost of hiring new deputies was a significant point of discussion, with estimates indicating that adding a single deputy, along with necessary equipment, could total around $200,000. To maintain adequate coverage, the county would need to hire multiple deputies, leading to substantial budgetary implications.

The court acknowledged the challenges of meeting the needs of a rapidly growing population, stating that even a 3.5% budget increase would not suffice to address all requests. Prioritization of projects was emphasized, with mobility and law enforcement identified as critical areas for funding. The establishment of a parks department and job training programs for youth were also mentioned as important initiatives.

The court expressed a desire for elected officials to oversee the Community Advisory Board (CAB), ensuring accountability and responsiveness to voter feedback regarding county priorities. The discussion concluded with a recognition of the need for additional resources to expand road maintenance capabilities, suggesting that future revenue could facilitate the hiring of more staff and equipment to improve infrastructure.

Overall, the meeting underscored the county's commitment to addressing growth-related challenges while navigating budgetary constraints and the importance of community input in shaping future priorities.