The Houston City Council passed a $7. 5 billion budget Wednesday, 15-1, adopting Mayor John Whitmire's spending plan for the upcoming fiscal year after weeks of debate over new fees, spending priorities and the city's long-term financial outlook.

The budget, which takes effect July 1, includes a new $5 monthly solid waste administrative fee and a right-of-way charge on Houston Water and Wastewater operations.

Supporters say the measures help close budget gaps and maintain city services, while opponents contend the plan lacks transparency and fails to address deeper financial concerns.