So over 11 years, we had a city tax increase of less than ten cents per $100. The city has grown, so more people are paying tax. Valuation of land back in 1998 was $178,959,068 and current valuation is $372,735,802 total increase of $193,776,734. The maximum that the city could levy is .50 according to the law.
So, the city manager and department heads suggest a budget, but in the end it is our city councilmen who approve that budget. And when we have a tax increase it is our councilmen who approve that.
Over the weekend I came across an old story about taxes. Today I spoke with the author and she has given me permission to link to it.
I just have to ask, how can we say the current city manager/economic development manager is not doing his job?
Over the weekend I came across an old story about taxes. Today I spoke with the author and she has given me permission to link to it.
I just have to ask, how can we say the current city manager/economic development manager is not doing his job?
Look at the total tax bill. The aggregate tax rate has increased every year since 1999, except for 2003.
ReplyDeleteAdditionally, look at the increases in fees for water services caused as a result for mandatory cut backs in drought years (20% increase a few years ago)
It isn't just what the City tax rate is on property taxes, it's the county and everything else we have to pay.
Mike
Mike
ReplyDeleteI love the way you send comments but will not post any of mine, or any other who do not agree with you. I was speaking only of city tax and you know that. I hardly think you can hold the city responsible for county and other taxes that are levied on us. And I show the city tax did go up in 2003 but down in 2005 and 2006. I have about 30 years of tax information.
You very clearly have an opinion and feel that yours is the only one worth hearing. You claim one thing but then do the opposite. When you said you spoke with Gary you did not say it was though email nor did you post his entire comment. You picked out what you felt would represent you the best. (Cliff was kind enough to forward the information.)
I am not a fan of taxes and can go off the deep end further than you and Bob. I do however value and respect the people doing their jobs. Remember, most of the people who plan the budgets for the city and the council members who approve the budget also have their own taxes go up.
I watched a video (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QM3IE0TCKPU) of the last round of budget approval over the weekend. As far as the fire truck goes, several businesses and homes can be saved because of that purchase if they were to catch fire..not just Cabela's. I know of 1 business that would still be in town had the building they were in not burned to the ground. And if that truck saves just 1 life it was money well spent. I was also in attendance when you went after the police department and a new vehicle. You may want to consider treating our public servants with some respect.