Austin Officials Forecasts $3.8M Budget Shortfall
Austin, the wellness state of Texas is bracing for “some very tough decisions” in the next few months, according to interim City Manager Jesus Garza. The reason lies in the city’s finances, as financial analysts have forecasted a $3.8 million budget shortfall that is expected to conclude by the end of the fiscal year 2023-24, which ends on September 30.
The Expectations
The initial budget had accounted for a much higher amount, but a series of unforeseen events have led to less revenue and increased costs – resulting in this projected deficit. Garza stated, “The anticipated deficit will limit our opportunity to fund any new initiatives, program enhancements or additional staff.” This is undoubtedly unfortunate news for any hopes of expansion within the city’s various programs and departments, as all plans must now be reevaluated or even halted altogether.
Reasons for the Shortfall
The shortfall arrives mainly as a result of stagnant sales tax revenue. At the end of the fiscal year, officials expected sales tax returns to reach around $358.7 million. However, they are forecasting a $16.9 million dip compared to their previous estimates. “We were budgeted at 3.1% growth for fiscal year [2023-24], but because of the [FY 2022-23] actuals being less than our anticipated budget, we estimate we need 4.8% growth in order to meet this current year’s budget,” explained City Budget Officer Kerri Lang.
Cost Increases & Revenue Decreases
On the spending side, city officials expect costs to rise. They plan to increase wages for city employees by at least 3% each year. Health insurance benefits are also projected to go up by 10%. The combination of these increases with projected labor contracts for public safety employees would cost the city about $46 million for FY 2024-25.
The city also plans to spend $2.7 million to hire 16 new firefighters and 12 paramedics when the new Canyon Creek fire and emergency medical services station opens in Northwest Austin this fall. This further adds to the budget crunch.
On the revenue side, a lack of sales tax income growth seems to be the primary driver behind the revenue shortfall. Sales tax revenue has grown by 1.5% so far this fiscal year, which is significantly lower than expected. Even factoring in projected sales tax growth in the coming fiscal years, the city is still expected to face a shortfall.
Concluding Remarks
The city of Austin is no stranger to financial challenges, and city leaders have effectively navigated through such issues in the past. Despite the daunting forecast, interim City Manager Jesus Garza shows resilience and determination for the part ahead. “We’re not going to leave anything on the table,” Garza promises. However, it is of utmost importance for the community to stay informed about the city’s budget matters, and citizens are encouraged to stay engaged in the conversation as the development moves forward into the budgeting process.
