Central Health to vote on proposed property tax increase for Travis County

September 8, 2026 - 23:43

Austin-area property owners may see another increase on their tax bills next year. Central Health, the hospital district serving Travis County, is moving toward a vote on a proposed property tax rate increase that would fund expanded mental health services for people in crisis.

The district argues the additional revenue is necessary to address a growing demand for psychiatric care and emergency intervention. Officials point to long wait times at local emergency rooms and a shortage of inpatient beds as evidence that the current system is stretched too thin. If approved, the new rate would generate millions in extra funding, with a large portion directed toward crisis stabilization units and mobile response teams.

But the proposal has drawn pushback from some residents and taxpayer advocacy groups. Critics say the district has not done enough to show where existing funds are being spent, and they question whether another levy is the right solution. Travis County homeowners have already faced steep appraisal increases in recent years, and many are feeling the squeeze from higher insurance and living costs.

The Central Health board of managers is scheduled to take up the vote at an upcoming meeting. If it passes, the measure would still require final certification before appearing on the next tax cycle. The district has scheduled public comment sessions ahead of the decision, giving Travis County residents a chance to weigh in on whether the added cost is justified.