A heated dispute over Houston’s 2025–2026 fiscal budget has erupted between Mayor John Whitmire and City Controller Chris Hollins, as concerns mount over a projected property tax increase and the use of the city’s emergency reserves to cover everyday expenses. The budget, which was approved by 14 of the 16 city council members, claims to avoid raising property taxes. However, Hollins warns that Houston residents could see a property tax hike of 5 to 8 percent by August.