The Arlington City Council began its review of the proposed $750.7 million Fiscal Year 2026 operating budget on August 5. The budget plan outlines several measures, including spending cuts, the introduction of new fees, and a proposed property tax rate increase. These steps are aimed at addressing a projected $20 million budget shortfall necessary to maintain the city’s current level of services.
To help close the gap, the budget proposal includes a three-cent property tax rate hike along with increases in water rates, garbage collection fees, and stormwater fees. If these changes are approved, the average Arlington homeowner would see an overall increase of approximately $12.28 per month, totaling around $147.39 annually across all city service-related costs.
The City Council is expected to vote on the budget in September. Ahead of the vote, residents will have opportunities to share their input during scheduled town hall meetings on August 14 and August 21, 2025.
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