Preliminary Fiscal Year 2026 Budget. Ms. Wagner reported that based on the appraised values, the tax rate will decrease by % cent to $0.059699. She presented four budget scenarios with staff salary increases of 0%, 3%, 4% and 6% and noted that the cost of living for the period of June 2024 to May 2025 is 3%. Also included in all of the scenarios is $975,474 in capital outlay. She stated that she consulted with the Authority’s auditors who stated that 4 fund balance to cover three months of expenses is recommended but because of current economic volatility, it would be better to maintain a balance for six to 12 months instead. The Board can consider a resolution to set the fund balance at a later meeting. Ms. Wagner added that her salary for the entire year is included in the budget and has not been adjusted for her retirement. Mr. J. Morales stated that he is in favor of the option with no salary increases. Mr. Graveley stated that he preferred the 3% option. Mr. Marez noted that the salary study illustrated where STWA stands among other similar companies in the industry. STWA is currently at full staff and he is hopeful that the robust benefit package will keep employees from leaving for other jobs. He added that staff has tried to keep spending conservative and fund balances have remained in good standing the past few years so this might be the year to dip into teserve funds. Mr. Graveley made a motion to select the preliminary FY 2026 Budget with the 3% sal

Bastiat Liberty & Property Rights Analysis

This motion is scored as RESTRAINS_GOVERNMENT (Impact Weight: 2.2/10). Under the Bastiat Liberty Watchdog Index, voting YES on measures that cap or reduce ad valorem tax burdens, expand taxpayer exemptions, retire debt early, enforce competitive bidding caps, or remove regulatory/zoning barriers to private property rights earns a positive Pro-Liberty score.