Tom Green County Commissioners hold public hearing on proposed 2025 tax rate

SAN ANGELO, Texas ( Concho Valley Homepage ) — Tom Green County Judge Lane Carter addressed concerns about the county’s tax rate and budget in an interview after a Tom Green County Commissioner’s Court public hearing on Aug. 22.

Carter expressed that the tax rate for this year would remain the same as last year’s rate of $0.4729, which has not changed since 2021. Carter explained that while the county’s appraisals have increased, leading to higher revenue, the tax rate itself is not being raised.

“We are not proposing a higher rate, it’s a numbers game, focused on the county and the services we provide,” said Carter.

Regarding the county’s reserve funds. Carter addressed that the current 30% reserve is crucial for maintaining services during emergencies, such as another pandemic. Additionally, $12 million has been set aside for a future court annex.

Regarding employee compensation, Carter noted the challenge of retaining staff in a competitive job market. The budget proposed a 5% cost-of-living adjustment and a 3% market adjustment for targeted job classes. The 2023 budget included an 8% cost-of-living adjustment with a 25 merit increase.

Carter reported progress in reducing operating losses, moving from a $1.5 million loss this year to a projected surplus. This is a huge increase over the past several years, which saw a consistent decrease ranging from $400,000 to $1.1 million annually.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ConchoValleyHomepage.com.