Travis County Eyes Mental Health Tax Boost | Austin News

Central Health is pushing to fund a major mental health overhaul in Travis County, proposing a six-to-eight percent property tax hike—potentially raising $22 million by fiscal year 2027—to tackle the crisis head-on. Combined with an $18.5 million settlement from Texas DOT, the $40 million would fund 22 new psychiatric beds, 10 emergency bays, expanded crisis centers, homeless support, and medication-assisted treatment. While supporters see it as essential care for those most vulnerable, critics worry about the financial strain on taxpayers amid rising costs. The board votes September 9, with final approval from county commissioners on the 15th—deciding whether Austin can afford this critical investment. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/066d24b4b9bc8138