Annual Report

A Message from Mayor Jim Holmes & Waco City Manager Bradley Ford

Annual Report & Financial Review(PDF, 22MB)

Dear Waco,

As your City of Waco Mayor and City Manager, we are filled with gratitude and immense pride for the progress we’ve made together. We are continually inspired by the dedication and collaborative spirit of our City Council, our residents, our employees, and our community partners.

This year presented its share of challenges. During the budget process, we navigated a tighter fiscal environment, facing the realities of inflation, rising costs, and slightly moderated growth in property values and sales tax revenues. However, our commitment to fiscal responsibility has ensured Waco’s financial footing remains strong. We are well-positioned to continue serving our City’s needs while fostering a thriving local economy.

Each year, we meticulously review our City’s values, objectives, and budget resources, ensuring alignment with the needs of our residents. Our focus remains steadfast: improving our infrastructure, enhancing our quality of life, and driving thoughtful economic development to build a stronger, more vibrant city for everyone.

We have found inspiration in the words of St. Francis of Assisi: “Start by doing what is necessary; then do what is possible; and suddenly you’re doing the impossible.” This philosophy guides our approach to City initiatives. We have seen this principle in action this year. By addressing our core needs, we’ve paved the way for remarkable progress. The revitalization of our downtown and the creation of quality jobs, once distant aspirations, are now tangible achievements.

It’s difficult to encapsulate all the remarkable things happening in Waco. We are filled with pride when we see the growth, the community spirit, and the unwavering dedication of our residents. These are truly great times to be a Wacoan.

Sincerely,

Jim Holmes & Bradley Ford