Tax rate

The property tax rate of $0.4169 cents per $100 of taxable value is a decrease from the existing tax rate of $0.4563 cents per $100 valuation. Property values have increased, according to new estimates. Interim County Executive Jessica Rio said in early August that staff’s original tax rate recommendation was anticipated to result in a tax bill increase of approximately $22 annually on the average taxable homestead. Homestead owners who are disabled or age 65 and older would see an average annual tax increase of approximately $1, she said. The majority of the county’s revenue comes from property taxes; additional funding comes from fines and fees, Rio said.

County budget

Travis County Commissioners Court is considering a $942.3 million preliminary budget for the 2015-16 fiscal year. The proposed budget, which was scheduled for adoption Sept. 29 at press time, outlines the county’s major expenditures, such as staff, the justice system, and corrections and rehabilitation costs. At its Sept. 1 meeting, Travis County Judge Sarah Eckhardt said the county will continue to collaborate with other major taxing entities in the region to remain mindful of overlapping tax rates.