When it comes to financing, public education can be an arduous task. In some cases, the initial step is to set aside some stifling assumptions: If we can’t pay cash, it’s not worth doing. The voters will never go for it. If I obligate the county to this debt, some of the constituents will not see fit to re-elect me. Perhaps voters deserve more credit. It’s safe … [Read more...] about Educating the Public on Your Bond Election
Revenue Related
Fine and Fee Collection
Challenging Times Call for Examination of Revenue Sources
Throughout 2019, local governments dependent upon the property tax carefully followed the progress of Senate Bill 2, passed by the 86th Texas Legislature and signed by the governor last June. Property taxes are the primary funding source for Texas counties, and S.B. 2 reduces this funding potential. “Maximizing additional revenue sources will be essential,” said Jim … [Read more...] about Fine and Fee Collection
Public Finance Options
Public Finance: Exploring County Options Mission accomplished…at least the seemingly toughest leg of the mission. On May 14, 2011, Smith County voters passed the issuance of $35 million in tax bonds for the Smith County Jail and criminal justice facilities expansion/remodeling project with a vote of 3,644 for and 2,136 against. Four previous bond … [Read more...] about Public Finance Options
Delinquent Fines and Fees
Economic Climate Adds Urgency to Collection Efforts County government has been described in a variety of ways: v An arm of the state… v The government closest to the people… v An instrument of public service… When it comes to the Governmental Collectors Association of Texas (GCAT), county government is … [Read more...] about Delinquent Fines and Fees
2009 Property Tax Report
The following is an excerpt of the latest property tax report. To view the text in full, go to www.window.state.tx.us/taxinfo/proptax/annual09/. Focus on Local Taxes Statewide Texas local units of government rely heavily on property tax to fund their operations. Nearly 4,000 separate taxing jurisdictions impose a property tax; these include counties, school districts, … [Read more...] about 2009 Property Tax Report