Travis County · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Travis County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
2027 Legislative Agenda
The county's wish list for the legislature: easier donation of old computers to nonprofits, fewer Bail Bond Board meetings, authority to ban roadside animal sales, state money for a mental health crisis center, and state support for StarFlight.
Employee Healthcare Costs and Benefit Changes
County employee health claims ran way over budget — another $3.56 million was transferred to close out 2026, on top of $13.7 million in July. Premiums are going up 8% next year with plan changes to control costs.
Formula One / Circuit of the Americas State Subsidies
A public commenter criticized ongoing county and state financial subsidies for the Circuit of the Americas racetrack, arguing that wealthy private equity owners do not need public financial support.
FY 2027 County Budget Adoption
Central Health presented its draft Fiscal Year 2027 budget, highlighting significant investments in mental health services, specialty care, and preventative primary care to help vulnerable residents avoid costly emergency room visits.
Employee Longevity Pay Revision
The county is reviewing potential updates to longevity pay for FY 2027, exploring options to increase flat dollar amounts and bring classified employees into parity with peace officers.
County Debt Issuance and Refunding
Travis County is planning a $138.8 million certificates of obligation bond issuance, which includes $12 million to purchase a new facility for the Precinct 2 Justice of the Peace and Constable. Commissioners also adjusted voter-approved bond schedules and scrubbed prior year accounts for savings.
Expiring Adult Behavioral Health Investments
Three core county-funded behavioral health programs—jail-based navigation, Assisted Outgoing Treatment, and the ACT team expansion—are facing funding expirations at the end of the fiscal year. Commissioners discussed the challenge of preserving these high-ROI programs amid tight budget constraints.
Emergency Response Compensation for County Employees
The court updated county rules to guarantee fair pay and overtime calculation for road crews and emergency staff who work during severe weather closures.