Examining Local Government Spending Trends From 2014 to 2023

City and county spending has outpaced growth in population and inflation, leading to an increase in the tax burden on Texan taxpayers.

Key points:

• Local government spending continues to outstrip increases in both population and inflation.
• From 2014 to 2023, local government spending rose by 61.2%, whereas population and inflation increased by only 42.7%.
• Elevated spending growth invites larger tax bills, bigger government, and mission creep.
• Proper fiscal restraints are needed to control the growth of local government budgets.