Budget approval
Leander residents can expect to see higher property tax bills following the City Council’s approval of the fiscal year 2025-26 budget on Sept. 18. The $311.9 million plan will run from Oct. 1, 2025, through Sept. 30, 2026.
Why tax bills are going up
City Manager Todd Parton explained that while the city’s tax rate is staying the same, rising home values are driving the increase. On average, homeowners will pay about $200 more than last year.
According to city documents, the average taxable home value in Leander rose from $514,904 in FY 2024-25 to $535,962 in FY 2025-26. Parton said that new construction has contributed to the rise, as recently built homes are appraised at higher values than older properties.
Priorities in the budget
Chief Financial Officer Otis Williams said the spending plan was developed with input from the city manager and department leaders.
“This budget is balanced and it provides the financial framework needed to maintain essential services while supporting the infrastructure and staffing necessary to meet community growth,” Williams said.
Parton added that councilmembers emphasized the importance of public safety, infrastructure, parks and recreation, library services, and expanding city programs.
Property tax rate
To fund the budget, council approved a property tax rate of $0.417282 per $100 of taxable value. Of that amount, $0.273604 will go toward operations and maintenance, while $0.143678 will fund the city’s debt obligations.
