El Paso County Commissioners Court scheduled two public hearings this week to gather community feedback on the county’s proposed budget and tax rate for the 2026‑27 fiscal year. The first session will be held Monday at 5:30 p.m. in the downtown Enrique Moreno County Courthouse, with a follow‑up hearing set for Sept. 14.

Proposed rate and budget context

The budget draft lists a $0.504 per $100 of assessed value tax rate as the ceiling the county may apply. This figure represents the maximum rate the county is authorized to levy under state law. County officials noted that the actual rate is likely to fall below that ceiling because the voter‑approved “No‑New‑Revenue Rate” – the baseline the county typically uses – sits just above $0.45. The flexibility built into the voter‑approved rate allows the commissioners to address emerging needs while keeping the final rate within a responsible range.

Resident participation

County leaders expect residents to voice both support and concerns about the potential increase. ABC‑7 will attend the Monday hearing to interview commissioners and community members, providing additional coverage of the public dialogue. Residents are encouraged to attend in person or submit written comments, ensuring that a broad range of perspectives are considered before the final budget is adopted.

Next steps

Following the Sept. 14 hearing, the Commissioners Court may adopt the proposed budget and tax rate. If approved, the new rate would take effect on Oct. 1, 2026, influencing property tax bills for homeowners and businesses throughout El Paso County.

The hearings underscore the county’s commitment to transparency and fiscal responsibility, giving taxpayers a direct voice in decisions that affect local services, infrastructure projects, and public safety funding.

Original reporting: El Paso News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.