County staff continue work on FY26 proposed budget and 2025 tax rate; commissioners set follow-up meeting

Hardin County staff told commissioners on July 28 they are awaiting information from the appraisal district and other parties before finalizing the county’s fiscal year 26 proposed budget and the 2025 proposed tax rate.

County staff member Steve told the court he expects to receive corrected appraisal district information and other outstanding items, after which the tax-rate worksheets and a proposed budget draft can be completed and circulated to commissioners for review. He said his goal was to have a final draft sent to the commissioners by the following day so the court could continue discussion at the special meeting scheduled for Wednesday, July 30, at 10 a.m.

Commissioners asked whether staff could display the worksheets and walk through any questions; staff said they were prepared to do so once the remaining data were received. Candace, another staff member, told the court she had most of the work done and was waiting on the outstanding items. The presiding official confirmed the court will reconvene Wednesday morning to continue the review.

No proposed tax rate or final budget figures were adopted at the July 28 meeting. The court adjourned and will resume consideration at the special meeting after staff circulates the proposed budget for review.