El Paso County · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in El Paso County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Sheriff's Office Personnel Policy Updates
Proposed changes to Section 11.3.08 will reshape how deputy sheriff promotions and selections are handled.
Sheriff's Office Budget and Staffing
The sheriff's office is managing ongoing overtime pressures and jail compliance while collaborating with county leaders on budget adjustments.
Strategic Leadership and Governance Planning
The county reviewed its upcoming strategic plan, setting new goals for economic mobility, employee support, financial management, and AI technology use.
Sheriff's Office Budget Deficit
Public commenters and financial reports highlighted a multi-million-dollar deficit in the Sheriff's Office budget, sparking community debate over spending and accountability.
Fiscal Year 2027 Budget and Tax Rate Proposal
El Paso County is reviewing its $696.8 million budget for the upcoming fiscal year. Commissioners are balancing property tax rates, revenue projections, and essential services while trying to minimize the tax burden on residents.
Small Municipality Infrastructure Support
El Paso is dropping $31 million to expand the Paso Del Norte Trail, which means way more room for your weekend bike rides and morning jogs. It’s a big step toward making the city more walkable and connected without having to rely on your car for everything.
Sheriff's Office Budget and Staffing
The Commissioners Court held an extensive special session and work session to review the budget, operations, and security deployments of the El Paso County Sheriff's Office. Much of the discussion occurred behind closed doors in executive session, with no final action taken on funding or policy adjustments.
Property Tax Rate Ceiling
Think your property taxes are out of control? A new report shows El Paso actually has lower rates than most other big Texas cities, even if your bill still feels like a gut punch.
Election and Tax Rates
The county is balancing the need for employee raises and infrastructure investment with the goal of keeping the tax rate manageable for residents.
Certified Appraisal Roll and Property Valuations
The Central Appraisal District reported a 2.12% increase in overall property valuations across El Paso County, with ongoing challenges regarding assessment protests.
Property Tax Rate Ceiling
Despite the hype around new state tax breaks, your El Paso property tax bill probably isn't going down much. It’s a classic case of legislative promises falling short of the actual relief homeowners were expecting.
State Funding for Disabled Veteran Property Tax Exemption
Veterans advocated for the state to fully fund property tax exemptions for 100% disabled veterans, preventing the financial burden from shifting to local taxpayers and counties.
Municipal Taxation and Fees
An appeals court just struck down El Paso’s $6 monthly trash fee, calling it an illegal tax. This ruling leaves a massive hole in the city's budget and forces officials to scramble for a new way to pay for environmental services.
School District Budget Crisis
El Paso ISD is facing a massive budget shortfall that’s threatening to cut programs and resources right where it matters most: the classroom. It’s a messy situation that could change how your local schools operate and potentially impact your tax bill.