Counties derive the majority of their revenue from property taxes.
85+% of our ongoing revenue comes from property taxes
Counties have limited “other” revenue options other than property taxes
All Counties are Unique: One Size Does Not Fit All
Travis County is one of 254 Texas Counties
Texas county government focuses primarily on the judicial system, health and social service delivery, law enforcement and corrections, and the County’s transportation infrastructure.
Counties must comply with state mandates in the delivery of services.
Travis County Program Areas
Cost Drivers and Budget Considerations
Population Growth – Travis County’s population continues to grow at unprecedented levels
10 year historical population growth rate is 2.6% overall & 3.1% in the unincorporated areas
Travis County is anticipated to grow at 2.4% overall & 4.9% for unincorporated areas for 2019
New or existing mandated programs
Recent mandates include Michael Morton Act & Sandra Bland Act
Interlocal cost increases for Emergency Medical Services, Public Health, etc
Resources for anticipated jail requirements to maintain Jail Standards
Security infrastructure
Elections
Emergency response and resiliency
Investments to maintain a competitive workforce
Tax Rate Transparency in the Adopted Budget
10 Year History of Property Tax Bills for the Average Taxable Homestead and Median Valued Homestead
10 Year History that compares the Adopted Tax Rate to the Effective Tax Rate, Effective Maintenance and Operations Tax Rate and Rollback Rate
Summary of Tax Rates and Homestead, 65 and Older and Disabled Exemptions by Major Jurisdiction
Taxpayer Impact Statement that allows taxpayers to see estimated tax impact for property values at the Adopted Tax Rate, Effective Tax Rate and Rollback Rate