On Aug. 14, City Council held the first public hearing for the proposed 2014–15 budget and tax rate.

Residents can share feedback about the proposed budget and property tax rate during the next City Council meeting Sept. 4. City Council plans to vote on the budget Sept. 11.

During a meeting July 31, department directors and City Council discussed the tax rate, projected budget revenue and expenses.

Director of Finance Joseph Gonzales said growth and higher property value appraisals led to a lower proposed property tax rate—down from the current $0.4925 to $0.485 per $100 of valuation in 2015.

Gonzales said his department expects the city's 2014–15 revenue to reach about $39.35 million, $3.7 million higher than 2013–14 revenue. The city's Finance Department expects to spend about $39.33 million from the city's general fund, which is supported by the city's tax rate, he said.

The general fund is one portion of the city's total budget. Separate budgets include the city's debt service, public utilities, solid waste, and the 4A and 4B corporations, which fund economic and community development initiatives.

The budget's general fund expenses were similar to those in the 2013–14 budget. The city plans to spend about 51 percent of the general fund on public safety and 16 percent on public works, leaving about 33 percent for culture and recreation, support services and city administration.

The Aug. 14 City Council meeting begins at 6:30 p.m. in Council Chambers, 450 Cypress Creek Road, Bldg. 4, Cedar Park.

Updated Aug. 13 CDT at 10:04 a.m.