The Government Finance Officers Association’s (GFOA’s) nationally recognized guidelines for effective budget presentation assess how well an entity’s budget serves as: a policy document; a financial plan; an operations guide; and a communications device. McLennan County excelled in each area and received the GFOA Distinguished Budget Presentation Award for … [Read more...] about County Budget Serves as Communication Tool
Budget
2020 County Property Tax Report
The taxpayer funds the majority of county government via the property tax, or ad valorem tax, which is the largest revenue source for Texas counties. Tax Code Section 5.091 requires the comptroller's office to prepare a list that includes the total tax rate imposed by each taxing unit in Texas, as reported to the comptroller by each appraisal district. The tax rates included … [Read more...] about 2020 County Property Tax Report
Local Property Tax Levies
Comptroller Releases 2018-19 Summary Report
In tax year 2019, Texas cities, counties, school districts, and special purpose districts levied more than $67 billion in property taxes – 5.51 percent more in 2019 than in 2018, according to the Biennial Property Tax Report. Unlike other taxing units, which can also collect sales taxes and fees, school districts’ only source of tax revenue is the property tax. In 2019, the … [Read more...] about Local Property Tax Levies
Vital Communication Tool
Using the County Budget to Connect With Constituents
“By offering sound information and improving the general understanding of the workings of the county, we strengthen the public's trust in government, and I am glad to be a part of this process. As we work to meet each year’s challenges, I encourage you to be active in your county’s government, stay informed, learn the issues, and visit with your county officials. … [Read more...] about Vital Communication Tool
Unfunded Mandate Legislation
Past Efforts Lay Groundwork for Future Progress
During the Regular Session of the 82nd Texas Legislature, Rep. Burt R. Solomons filed House Joint Resolution 56 (HJR 56) calling for the prohibition of unfunded mandates. Oldham County Judge Don R. Allred was there in person to offer his applause. “This was an important piece of legislation for counties,” recalled Allred, a past president of the County Judges and … [Read more...] about Unfunded Mandate Legislation