Fiscal Responsibility & Transparency

Ensuring fiscal responsibility and transparency in Amarillo requires efficient budgeting, clear communication, and accountability in how taxpayer dollars are spent.

Key Issues:

• Loss of Public Trust – Previous councils have pushed items through without sufficient transparency.
•  Concerns About Amarillo EDC – Possible corruption and a lack of oversight.
• Budget Inefficiencies – Areas where taxpayer money could be better allocated.
  

Proposed Solutions:

Zero-Based Budgeting (ZBB) – Require every department to justify expenses from the ground up to prevent unnecessary spending.
Performance-Based Budgeting (PBB) – Link funding to measurable outcomes to ensure taxpayer money delivers results.
Independent Audits & Efficiency Reviews – Identify and eliminate wasteful spending, duplicate programs, and inefficiencies.
Reduce Bureaucratic Overhead – Streamline city government by consolidating overlapping roles and eliminating red tape. 

Annual Financial Transparency Report – Publish an End-of-Year Report showing how taxpayer money is spent and its economic impact.
Full Disclosure on Economic Development Deals – Require transparency on tax incentives, corporate subsidies, and city contracts to ensure fairness.
Prevent Special Interest Influence – Establish strict ethics rules to prevent city contracts from benefiting political insiders.
Cap Non-Essential Borrowing – Limit debt for non-critical projects and prioritize funding for infrastructure and public safety.
Efficient Debt Reduction Plan – Implement a structured repayment strategy to lower interest costs and ease the burden on future generations.
Voter Approval for Major Debt-Funded Projects – Require public approval for large-scale, taxpayer-funded projects to ensure alignment with community priorities.

For Amarillo to grow sustainably, it must support local businesses, attract new industries, and invest in workforce development—all while ensuring long-term financial stability.

Key Issues:

• Stagnant Growth – Amarillo experiences sporadic growth cycles with long gaps between major developments. 
• Decline in Local Businesses – Small businesses struggle to survive
• Subpar Infrastructure – Inadequate roads, utilities, and facilities hinder economic expansion.

Proposed Solutions:

Small Business Grants & Incentives – Partner with local banks to provide low-interest loans, grants, and tax incentives for small businesses.
Local Business Incubator – Further partner with the AEDC and universities to enhance the already present incubators for startups, offering mentorship, funding, and training.
Competitive Tax Policy – Keep the effective tax rate low to avoid overburdening residents.  Propose putting an age cap on property tax increases.
Diversify Revenue Sources – Reduce reliance on property taxes by promoting business growth, tourism, and commercial development.
Accountability for Incentives – Businesses receiving tax breaks must meet clear job creation and community investment benchmarks.
Leverage Amarillo’s Transportation Hub – Utilize I-40 & I-27 access to attract distribution centers, logistics firms, and supply chain businesses.
Targeted Industry Recruitment Plan – Prioritize high-wage sectors like technology, logistics, and advanced manufacturing.
Strengthen Vocational & Trade Programs – Expand partnerships with Amarillo College, WTAMU, and trade schools for skilled workforce development.
Infrastructure Investments – Improve roads, utilities, and city services to attract major employers.
Boost Local Economy Through Events – Responsibly upgrade facilities to host conventions, concerts, and trade shows, generating revenue.

A safe city is the foundation of a thriving community. Amarillo must ensure first responders are fully staffed, well-equipped, and supported.

Key Issues:

• Officer Shortage – Amarillo is 30+ officers short of meeting recommended staffing levels.
• Understaffed Fire & EMS Services – Fire and emergency medical services lack personnel and resources.
• Overworked First Responders – Current staff are stretched thin, leading to burnout and lower retention.
  
  

Proposed Solutions:

Proactive Recruitment & Retention – Attend recruiting events across Texas with city leadership to showcase strong support for public safety.
Competitive Salaries & Benefits – Ensure Amarillo attracts and retains top-tier police, fire, and EMS personnel.
Better Resource Allocation – Work with department leaders to prioritize funding and staffing based on community needs.
Community Engagement Programs – Strengthen neighborhood partnerships to reduce crime and build trust between residents and law enforcement.
Modernized Emergency Response Systems – Invest in technology and equipment to improve response times and efficiency.
Citizen Oversight Committees – Establish a community-led advisory board to address concerns and maintain accountability.

A strong infrastructure system is critical for public safety, economic growth, and quality of life. Amarillo must address immediate needs while planning for future expansion.

Key Issues:

• Aging Water Treatment Facilities – Outdated systems threaten water quality and reliability.
• Deteriorating Water & Sewer Systems – Leaks, inefficiencies, and old pipelines need urgent replacement.
• Road Deterioration – Many high-traffic roads are in disrepair, affecting residents and businesses.

 Proposed Solutions:
Stop Delaying Critical Repairs – End the practice of "kicking the can down the road" and take action on necessary fixes.

 Smart Growth Plan – Implement forward-thinking zoning and land-use planning to accommodate expected growth while reducing future costs. 

Modernize Water & Sewer Systems – Follow through on existing replacement plans and invest in new, more efficient piping.

 Structured Road Repaving Schedule – Prioritize major roads and key city streets to ensure smooth traffic flow. 

Secure State & Federal Grants – Aggressively pursue State and federal funding for infrastructure projects to reduce the burden on taxpayers. 

Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) – Work with private investors to fund large-scale projects like road expansions and water treatment upgrades to ease the burden on taxpayers