Rent is going down, but taxes are going up.
Local Spending
Travis County Sues to Conceal Costs Related to DA Security
Travis County Commissioners Court approved more than $100,000 in undisclosed “security improvements” for District Attorney Jose Garza’s home but refused to turn over records related to the expenditure.
Harris County Republicans Oppose Houston ISD Bond
The total cost of the $4.4 billion bond including interest is expected to be $8.8 billion after thirty years.
Property Tax Cut Advocates Push Texas Senate for Future Relief
A slate of activist groups explained before the Senate Finance Committee how they would go about addressing Texas’ high property taxes.
Tarrant County GOP Chair Questions Mansfield City Council Over $86M Stadium
Mansfield council members say voters were informed about the potential uses of tax dollars and that there is no sinister activity taking place.
Lina Hidalgo’s State of Harris County Address Touts Tax Hikes
Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo requested support for increasing the flood control district tax to assist with maintenance.
‘Spending Spiral’ Pushes Local Finances to Brink
Accrual accounting recognizes liabilities at the time they are incurred and could dramatically change municipal budgeting.
Houston ISD Bond Polls Show Striking Differences
According to a former Houston City Controller, the bond will cost roughly $11 billion to pay back when interest is factored in, although the district has said the number is $8.8 billion.
Lawsuit Seeks to End Austin’s Property Tax Collection for Project Connect
The plaintiffs want city leaders to stop the tax, revisit the project, and let Austinites vote again.
State Rep. Harrison Busts School Funding Myths, Pushes for Fiscal Responsibility
The lawmaker pointed to sharp increases in per-pupil spending and administrative staff positions in Texas schools over the last decade.