Amarillo · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Amarillo public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Potential Forensic Audit of City Finances
The audit committee narrowed 13 firms to three finalists and will bring two recommended firms to a special meeting in early November. The audit covers CIP projects, ARPA funds, and the water/sewer enterprise, and must finish before the March CLA audit to protect up to $6 million in tax rate capacity.
Fiscal Year 2026/2027 Municipal Budget Adoption
The city approved its annual budget and a flat property tax rate of $0.43070, though residents will face higher utility and service fees. Council members discussed the challenges of balancing infrastructure needs against household cost-of-living pressures.
Strategic Planning and Goal Alignment
Amarillo is facing rapid population growth and outward sprawl, requiring major investments in water, wastewater treatment, and street maintenance. Leaders discussed how to manage these demands without overburdening taxpayers or letting infrastructure fall behind.