Azle City Council Approves Property Tax Increase Amidst Resident Opposition

Property Tax Increase Approved

• 🏛️ The Azle City Council approved a property tax increase of 6.24 cents per $100 valuation, representing a 3.49% rise in the tax rate.
• ⚠️ This decision came after a heated debate where residents voiced strong opposition.

Resident Concerns

• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Homeowners expressed worries that the higher tax rate would price out families, seniors, and individuals on fixed incomes.
• 💸 Concerns were raised about the rapid increase in property taxes, with one resident noting a 18% increase last year and a proposed 19% increase this year.
• 💰 Some residents, like those on fixed incomes, are facing the difficult decision of returning to work due to the rising costs.

City's Justification for Increase

• 📈 The city manager stated that an increase is needed to address growing city needs, including hiring more personnel for roads, police, and fire services.
• 📉 While the city has decreased the tax rate in previous years, the rising costs of living and increasing demands necessitate a tax adjustment.

Unfunded Projects

• 🚫 Due to the decision to not take on new debt, the proposed new animal services building will not be funded at this time.
• 📉 This decision led to feelings of the city