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Debt Information
Debt obligation transparency is all about local governments being upfront and clear about the money they owe—how much, for what, and when it’s due. It’s important because it gives taxpayers like you a clear view of where your money is going and how responsibly it’s being managed.
This transparency helps build trust, keep local officials accountable, and ensures decisions are made with everyone in mind. It’s a great way to keep the community informed and engaged in the financial health of your area!
Types of Debt
The City of Bellmead uses long-term debt to pay for things like equipment, facilities, and land acquisition—items that help improve the community. Unlike the federal government, the City cannot borrow money to cover everyday operating expenses or to run a deficit. Before any debt is finalized, it must be approved by the Texas Attorney General’s Office to ensure everything is in order.
Revenue bonds are secured by a dedicated revenue stream, like utility fees instead of property taxes. It allows the City to fund capital improvements for services that can support themselves. Unlike GO debt, revenue bonds don’t need voter approval but must meet certain requirements to ensure the City can repay them.
Certificates of Obligation (COs) are used for urgent or essential projects, like infrastructure repairs, facility upgrades, or buying equipment. Unlike GO bonds, COs don’t need voter approval unless a petition is filed. Repayment can come from property taxes, utility revenues, or both.
Tax Notes: are short-term debt tools (up to seven years) used for smaller capital projects or equipment purchases. Backed by property taxes, they provide the flexibility to handle immediate needs without long-term commitments.
Special Tax Debt is repaid through a specific tax source, like sales tax or hotel occupancy tax. It’s often used for economic development, tourism projects, or infrastructure improvements in designated areas.
Total Outstanding Debt Obligations
Note: Per Capita figures are based on the City's 2024 estimated population of 10,656.
| Fiscal Year 2024 | Per Capita | |
|---|---|---|
| Tax Supported Certificates of Obligation | $3,790,000 | $356 |
| Water/Sewer Revenue Supported Certificates of Obligation | $4,440,000 | $417 |
| Lease Purchase/Revenue Obligations | $0 | $0 |
| Total Outstanding Debt Obligations | $8,230,000 | $773 |
Note: Outstanding Debt is as of 09/30/2025.
Historical Debt Information
Note: The City has not held any bond elections to date.
| Issue Date | Par Amount | Outstanding | Title | Final Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 08/01/2018 | $1,995,000 | $1,430,000 | Combination Tax & Ltd Pledge Revenue C/O Series 2018 | 03/01/2038 |
| 03/01/2016 | $2,400,000 | $1,475,000 | Combination Tax & Ltd Pledge Revenue C/O Series 2016 | 03/01/2036 |
| 08/01/2014 | $8,500,000 | $4,690,000 | Combination Tax & Ltd Pledge Revenue C/O Series 2014 | 03/01/2034 |
| 03/01/2012 | $1,365,000 | $0 | General Obligation Refunding Bonds Series 2012 | 03/01/2017 |
| 03/01/2012 | $230,000 | $0 | Tax Notes Series 2012 | 03/01/2017 |
| 06/15/2007 | $1,503,000 | $0 | Combination Tax & Revenue C/O Series 2007 | 06/25/2011 |
| 08/01/1999 | $2,020,000 | $0 | Combination Tax & Revenue C/O Series 1999 | 03/012012 |
| 08/01/1999 | $820,000 | $0 | General Obligation Refunding Bonds Series 1999 | 03/01/2005 |
| 01/01/1990 | $900,000 | $0 | Combination Tax & Revenue C/O Series 1990 | 03/01/1999 |
| 07/15/1986 | $1,580,000 | $0 | Combination Tax & Revenue C/O Series 1986 | 03/01/1999 |
| 06/01/1961 | $330,000 | $0 | SS Combination Rev & U/L Tax Bonds Series 1961 (McLennan County WCID #3 GO Debt) | 036/01/1997 |
Planned Debt Issuance
The City does not anticipate issuing any debt during FY 2026. However, the City is actively evaluating a future General Obligation (GO) bond election to support key infrastructure and recreational priorities.
In particular, the redevelopment of Dugger Field, a 52-acre former landfill site now cleared and environmentally approved, into a regional baseball and softball complex. This facility would promote community wellness and serve as an economic development catalyst by attracting tournaments and visitors.
The City is seeking partial grant funding through the Texas Parks and Wildlife (TPWD) to offset the cost of recreational amenities. Depending on grant outcomes and community feedback, the City may pursue a GO bond election to fund all or a portion of these improvements.
HB 1378: Debt Obligation Reporting Under Local Government Code Section 140.008
The 84th Legislature passed HB 1378 to increase the transparency of local government debt.
Under Local Government Code § 140.008, political subdivisions, including counties, cities, school districts, junior college districts, special purpose districts, and other subdivisions of state government must annually compile their debt obligation data from the preceding fiscal year. The City of Bellmead has submitted this information to the Comptroller of Public Accounts and it can be found at Texas Local Government Debt Reporting.
Tax Rates
Each year the city is required to calculate a debt service tax rate to support the debt service needs of the city. These rates can be found here.