The city's 2017-2018 fiscal year begins on October 1. The City Council and staff are working together to make the best use of taxpayers' dollars. With economic vitality, quality of life, and streets/infrastructure as the three main areas, each year it is crucial to make wise decisions by balancing these priorities with available revenues.
This year, we are pleased to be working towards a second consecutive year of reducing the ad valorem tax rate for property owners. As values of homes increase, a lower tax rate reduces the taxes owners pay on the assessed value of their homes. The proposed tax rate of $0.79 would mark the first time in eight years since the tax rate has been below $0.80.
Citizens are encouraged to become knowledgeable about the budget process. Each City Council meeting from now through September will include a review of the 2017-2018 proposed budget. The meetings are open to the public and also aired live via the city's cable channel. Videotapes of the meetings are also posted online the following day.