Johnson City adopts 2026–27 budget, advancing plan for new aquatics center amid heated debate

The Johnson City Commission approved the fiscal year 2026–27 budget on June 25, voting to raise property taxes to fund a package of capital projects that includes planning and initial funds for a proposed comprehensive aquatics center.

The adopted budget — the product of three readings and extensive public input — funds multiple infrastructure and quality‑of‑life projects. Mayor Cox framed the measure as a long‑term investment: “We’re a $137” city for property tax rate he said, arguing the increase is necessary to preserve city services and invest in projects that attract business and families.

The proposed aquatic center was the meeting’s most contentious item. Supporters, including swimmers, parents and physicians, said the project would restore lost access after the closure of Freedom Hall and deliver public‑health and economic benefits. “When families decide where to live, they look for communities that invest in their people,” 13‑year‑old swimmer Claire Arnold told commissioners, asking them to approve the tax increase.

Opponents raised affordability and fiscal‑risk concerns. Kent Johnson warned the tax would be permanent and said consultants projected ongoing operating subsidies; Randy Keebler and others questioned whether user fees and usage would justify the investment.

Commissioners debated an amendment to strip aquatics funding from the ordinance and leave one penny for parks planning; the amendment failed on a roll‑call vote. After further debate, the commission approved the budget on final reading. Several members who opposed parts of the package nevertheless voted for the ordinance; votes were recorded during the meeting.

Beyond the aquatics issue, the budget includes appropriations for streets, public safety equipment, parks programming and other capital projects. Staff pledged to continue public outreach and to return with implementation details and timelines for large projects, including vendor selection and community programming for the aquatic center.

What happens next: the city manager and Parks & Recreation staff will move to procurement and planning phases for approved projects, and commissioners signaled interest in close public reporting on costs, operating models and programming once design work advances.