Transparency in Government

Transparency in Government

Transparency in government simply refers to a taxpayer’s right to know where their money is going and to be able to access that information in a freely accessible manner rather than through the process of open records requests. 

Public Information (Open Records)

The Texas Public Information Act (the "Act") gives the public the right to request access to government records. The Act is triggered when a person submits a written request for information that is already in existence. The Public Information Act is very lenient in what it considers publication information; however, the "Act" does not require nor does time permit this office to do general research so please be very specific in your request.

The request must be clear enough to enable the City to conduct a meaningful search. The City may ask questions about the request in order to respond to the request fully and in a timely manner.

Submit a Public Information Request

Submit a Police Department Public Information Request

Government Spending

Everything that is spent by the government (local, state, federal, school, college districts and more) is paid for by the taxpayers in that entity. Most residents pay taxes to multiple taxing entities, but the right to know where your tax dollars are going is your right and the entities’ responsibility.

Uses of Tax Money

As a taxpayer, you pay for all aspects of your government, including things you might not think about, such as:

  • Chemicals used in the pools
  • Paper clips used in offices
  • Uniforms for police officers

City Transparency

The City of West University Place is opening their books to the public by providing the information in a user-friendly format that shows a clear and consistent picture of the money spent.

Budgets

2022 Adopted Operating Budget

2022 Adopted Master Fee Schedule

Past Budgets

2021 Adopted Operating Budget

2021 Adopted Master Fee Schedule

Previous Years Budgets

Financial Policies

For more information, visit our Financial Policies page.

Other Financial Information

Landowner's Bill of Rights 

The Landowner's Bill of Rights applies to any attempt by the government or a private entity to take your property.  The contents of this Bill of Rights are prescribed by the Texas Legislature in Texas Government Code Sec. 402.031 and Chapter 21 of the Texas Property Code. View the Landowner's Bill of Rights here.