Texas City Preparing for Reduced Revenue

Lubbock is bracing for a hard financial hit, hiring freeze in place, discretionary spending on hold.

Atkinson said the projection is that sales taxes for the current fiscal year will go from $1.5 million over to $3 million below the budget estimates. That’s a $4.5 million estimated loss, Atkinson said.

The city has already instituted a hiring freeze for everything except public safety and public health. Atkinson said that will make up for $1.7 million of the shortfall.

Many uncommitted projects were put on hold along with vehicle purchases. For now, street maintenance continues. However, Atkinson said that could change if things get worse. Discretionary expenses and travel were halted, he said.