Hidalgo County, TX (KRGV) — Hidalgo County Commissioners Court adopted a $439 million budget for fiscal year 2027, while also lowering the county's property tax rate.

The General Fund budget totals $439.7 million with a rainy day fund balance of $87 million, up from $70 million the previous year.

Commissioners Court adopted a total county property tax rate of $0.5691 per $100 of taxable value. That is lower than the previous rate of $0.5750.

"This budget reflects the needs of a large and growing county," Hidalgo County Judge Richard F. Cortez said. "It protects essential services, supports the employees who serve our residents and invests in roads, technology and operations. Commissioners Court remains committed to responsible stewardship and transparent decision-making on behalf of Hidalgo County taxpayers."

The rate breaks down to $0.5194 for maintenance and operations and $0.0497 for debt service.

The new budget sets a minimum wage of more than $15 per hour and a five percent cost of living adjustment for all Hidalgo County employees.

The budget also increases funding for the Hidalgo County Sheriff's Office to approximately $111 million, up from $104 million in the previous year's budget. The total law enforcement allocation is $120.35 million, which includes all five Precinct Constable Offices.

Other budget allocations include $53.9 million for Road and Bridge, $2.68 million to support local firefighting agencies and $2.41 million for health and human services including mental health.

The budget also sets aside $9.7 million for countywide technology upgrades and $10.6 million for sanitation services.