The Richardson City Council convened for a budget workshop on August 5, 2025, focusing on the fiscal year 2025-2026 budget. The meeting began with no public comments, as no residents signed up to speak.

City Manager Mr. MacKer led the discussion, emphasizing the review of the city's five largest funds: water, sewer, drainage, solid waste, golf, and hotel-motel operations. He also presented the capital plan for the upcoming fiscal year and initiated discussions regarding a potential future bond program and election options.

Mr. MacKer recapped previous discussions, highlighting the importance of national and international economic factors, as well as local economic conditions. He reiterated the city’s core missions, which include public safety and infrastructure projects.

Key recommendations included maintaining the current property tax rate and increasing the senior tax exemption from $145,000 to $160,000. Additionally, a 2.5% merit increase for sworn public safety personnel was proposed for October 1, 2025, followed by an additional 2% increase on April 1, 2026.

The workshop underscored the city's commitment to fiscal responsibility while addressing the needs of its residents and public safety personnel. Further discussions and decisions regarding the budget will continue in upcoming meetings.