Disaster response in Galveston could be delayed by proposed tax rate, city says

GALVESTON

A no-new-revenue tax rate is likely to go into effect when the city council votes on the tax rate in September, which would mean a decrease in the city’s general reserve fund balance, administrators said.

City staff members warn depleting the fund could delay debris removal and recovery of operations after a hurricane, therefore increasing costs to the public.

Councilwoman Marie Robb, one of three elected officials likely to vote for no-new-revenue rate, said the city would still have enough money and could rely on funding from the Federal Emergency Management Agency, however.

If the council votes for a no-new-revenue rate this year and the next two years, the reserve fund, which is used in emergencies and to cover project costs before reimbursements come through, will drop f