Harlingen · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Harlingen public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
2026 Property Tax Rate
The commission proposed a property tax rate of $0.531060 per $100 valuation for Tax Year 2026 and scheduled public hearings.
Fiscal Year 2026 Budget Adjustments
Commissioners discussed a proposal to allocate reserve funds to provide a 5% across-the-board raise for non-police and non-fire municipal employees, highlighting concerns over employee morale and recurring budget impacts.
School District Budget
Harlingen CISD just greenlit a $198.3 million budget that prioritizes staff raises despite a drop in student enrollment. It’s a bold bet on retaining talent to help the district bounce back from recent financial struggles.
Harlingen Multipurpose Recreation Center Design
The city selected Rain Architects to design the new indoor recreation center, aiming to provide updated facilities and programming for residents.
Summer Reading Program Engagement
The library board is planning the budget for next year, deciding where to spend money on services and new programs. This affects what resources and activities will be available to the public.
Flood Control Funding
Harlingen and Weslaco are getting a financial boost for flood control projects. This means better protection for residents when severe weather hits.