JC 2026 budget passes 2nd reading with no changes

The Johnson City Board of Commissioners held a meeting Thursday morning to discuss the 2026 fiscal year budget. No changes to the budget were presented. Mayor John Hunter said that the city is in good shape and solid with a healthy fund balance. That comes even after a $28 million dollar payout to sexual assault victims after reaching a settlement in a civil lawsuit against the city and its police after being accused of mishandling sexual assault cases. Hunter said the budget will implement many things residents are looking for, including much-needed road infrastructure upgrades. The third and final reading will be June 19.