The Garland City Council's recent budget workshop highlighted key financial strategies aimed at addressing community needs while preparing for future tax rate elections. City officials emphasized the importance of the upcoming tax rate election scheduled for November 2026, referring to the current budget as a "bridge year" to facilitate this transition.

A significant aspect of the proposed budget includes utilizing one-time resources to cover ongoing expenses in the general fund. This approach will help manage costs related to parks maintenance and fleet operations, while also providing a 2.5% one-time lump sum payment for city employees, totaling approximately $3.5 million.

The council reported a certified property tax base of $28.3 billion, reflecting a 5.6% increase from the previous year. This growth is attributed largely to a record level of new construction, which amounted to $552 million, with commercial properties contributing significantly to the general fund. Despite this growth, the council plans to maintain the property tax rate at its current level, adhering to state regulations that limit revenue increases.

Changes to homestead and senior exemptions were also discussed, with the council approving a 1% increase in the homestead exemption and a $4,000 increase for seniors. This adjustment means that Garland now offers an 11% homestead exemption and a $60,000 senior exemption, aimed at easing the tax burden on residents.

For homeowners, the average market value of a single-family residence in Garland increased by only 1.1%, resulting in an average annual city tax of $1,838—a 5.5% increase from 2024. This contrasts with the broader Dallas County average market value increase of 4.76%, raising concerns about Garland's property tax base growth compared to neighboring cities.

As the city prepares for the upcoming tax rate election and continues to navigate budgetary challenges, officials remain focused on balancing fiscal responsibility with the needs of the community. The discussions from this workshop will play a crucial role in shaping Garland's financial landscape in the coming years.