Texas Border Business
BROWNSVILLE, Texas – The City of Brownsville City Commission has approved the City’s Fiscal Year 2027 budget, establishing a financial plan that prioritizes public safety, essential city services, infrastructure, economic development and quality-of-life investments for the Brownsville community.
The FY2027 budget, which covers Oct. 1, 2026, through Sept. 30, 2027, provides approximately $246.3 million in expenditures and expenses across the City’s funds. The budget directs significant resources toward the services and investments that impact residents, businesses and visitors every day.
Public safety remains the City’s largest operating priority, with approximately $71.6 million dedicated to public safety. The budget also provides approximately $28 million for public works, supporting essential infrastructure and services, including streets and drainage. Additional investments include $4.1 million for public health, $874,430 for housing assistance programs and $225,383 for public assistance.
The approved budget also continues the City’s commitment to economic growth and job creation through investments in key economic assets. The Brownsville South Padre Island International Airport and business industrial parks fund includes approximately $6.3 million in expenses, while the Convention and Visitors Bureau activities account for approximately $2.4 million. The City is also investing $2.65 million in fiber broadband, strengthening digital connectivity and supporting Brownsville’s continued growth as a regional center for business, international trade and commerce.
Quality of life remains another important component of the FY2027 budget. The City is dedicating approximately $12.3 million to culture and recreation and $8.8 million to public transit, while continuing to support community amenities including the Brownsville Sports Park, Brownsville Golf Center and Brownsville Events Center.
“The approved budget represents the City Commission’s continued commitment to investing in Brownsville’s future while maintaining a strong focus on residents and businesses,” said John Cowen, Jr., Brownsville City Mayor. “This budget represents our blueprint for continued progress. We are investing in public safety, infrastructure, economic development and quality of life while maintaining our commitment to responsible financial management and delivering value to the residents of Brownsville.”
“This budget reflects our responsibility to be good stewards of public resources while making strategic investments in the services and infrastructure our community needs,” said Alan Guard, ICMA-CM, CGFO, Brownsville City Manager. “Our goal is to ensure every dollar is working for the residents of Brownsville, maintaining essential services today while preparing our City for continued growth and opportunity tomorrow.”
The FY2027 budget takes effect Oct. 1, 2026.
Information source: The City of Brownsville
