Montgomery County’s preliminary 2026 budget is set to top $508 million, with commissioners focused on achieving equal pay for law enforcement, cybersecurity, and new staffing across departments.
Montgomery County commissioners are preparing for significant funding increases in 2026, with the initial budget projected to exceed $508 million—a $37 million increase from the current year.
With budget workshops approaching next month, the focus will be on law enforcement, cybersecurity, and workforce needs during the discussions.
County Budget Officer Amanda Carter detailed key priorities totaling approximately $17 million, which include equal pay for law enforcement, improvements in cybersecurity, employee health benefits, and services mandated by the state.
One of the key topics will be compensation for law enforcement personnel. In the wake of the City of Houston granting a significant 36% increase for its police force over the next five years, Montgomery County commissioners have established a committee to address and analyze compensation disparities.
“We must ensure equal pay,” Carter stated. “We’re currently navigating the committee process, but we will have a proposal ready ahead of the workshops.”
In 2025, the county allocated funds for 23 new full-time law enforcement positions within its $466 million budget. A total of 108 new positions have been requested by various departments in 2026. This includes 45 from the Sheriff’s Office, 15 from constables' offices, 14 from IT, seven from the tax office, and six from the District Attorney’s office, amounting to approximately $15 million in new personnel expenses.
The Sheriff’s Office has proposed a budget of $124 million, representing a significant increase from the previous $108 million. Officials have called for departments experiencing notable budget increases to participate in forthcoming workshops to explain their requirements.
Cybersecurity is currently in the spotlight. The Information Technology department has submitted a request for $39 million, an increase from the previous $19 million, highlighting growing concerns regarding data security and the robustness of the infrastructure.
“There are numerous aspects in IT that remain unclear to us,” stated Precinct 2 Commissioner Charlie Riley. “However, that will be essential as time progresses.”
County Judge Mark Keough emphasized the importance of investing in law enforcement as a top priority.
“We cannot compromise on law enforcement,” Keough stated. “Our approach emphasizes accountability—if you engage in unlawful behavior, consequences will ensue, and they will be prompt.”
