The Cleburne City Council convened on August 12, 2025, to address several key financial matters, including the acceptance of the certified appraisal roll and the anticipated tax rates for the upcoming fiscal year.

The meeting began with a presentation by Mr. Broomstroy, who outlined the city's certified taxable values, which exceed $4 billion. He noted an estimated value loss of $157 million due to property value freezes for homeowners aged 65 and older. Additionally, ongoing appeals are projected to result in a further loss of $60 million, leading to a net taxable value of approximately $3.8 billion. Year-over-year comparisons revealed a $297 million increase in appraised values, primarily driven by new construction.

Mr. Broomstroy also discussed the anticipated excess debt collection rate for the 2025 tax year, projected at 115%. He explained the calculations necessary for determining the no new revenue rate and the voter approval rate, which are essential for setting the tax rate. The no new revenue rate is estimated at 57.6 cents per $100 of assessed value, while the voter approval rate is set at 61.3 cents.

Following the presentation, the council unanimously approved a resolution to accept the certified appraisal roll and the anticipated excess debt collection rate. The council then moved to express its intent to adopt a maximum tax rate of 0.612548 per $100 valuation for the fiscal year 2026, with a scheduled vote for September 9, 2025. This resolution passed with a vote of 4 to 1.

The council also scheduled public hearings for the fiscal year 2026 budget and tax rate, set for August 26 and September 9, respectively. These hearings are required under Texas law to ensure transparency and public participation in the tax rate adoption process.

In a subsequent agenda item, the council reviewed proposed changes to employee benefit plans for fiscal year 2026. Ms. Branson presented the plan, which includes a continuation of medical coverage with Cigna, despite a potential 26% rate increase that was negotiated down to a 15% cap. The proposed changes also involve a transition to Cigna for accident and critical illness coverage and an increase in the city-provided basic life insurance benefit.

The meeting concluded with the council's approval of the employee benefit plans, marking a significant step in managing the city's financial responsibilities while ensuring employee welfare. Overall, the council's discussions reflected a commitment to fiscal responsibility and community engagement as they prepare for the upcoming fiscal year.