by VERONICA GORDON
The city of Buda 2012-2013 proposed tax rate is set to increase total tax revenues from properties by 0.97 percent.
In other words, the amount of taxes on the average home last year was $411.10. That bill could increase to $421.54 if the council adopts the proposed tax rate of $0.2713 per $100 valuation.
Buda City Council members held a public hearing Friday afternoon about the proposed 2012-2013 tax rate and judging by the lack of turnout, citizens are pleased with the services their getting, said Mayor Pro Tem Sandra Tenorio.
“I think it’s an indication that people are satisfied,” Tenorio said. “The city has been conservative with its spending and we didn’t have to lay off any city staff last year. That’s why we don’t see any outcry from citizens.”
Tenorio admitted that the 3 p.m. meeting time on Friday afternoon might have had an affect on the attendance.
“The timing is odd,” she said. “But it gives those with other things going on an opportunity to come.”
Most council meetings and public hearings begin at 6 p.m. or 7 p.m., Tenorio said.
Council Member Cathy Chilcote said residents always have an opportunity to express themselves on issues and on the tax rate.
“They can come to the next meeting, or email us,” she said. “We like it when people come and speak at the council meetings.”
Council Member Todd Ruge said the timing was “odd” because of the rules about posting advance notice within a certain amount of time.
“We had to get this done in a short amount of time in order to approve the budget and tax rate,” Ruge said. “But we’ve been very accessible and transparent. The budget is online for anyone to look at.”
The next public hearing is at 6 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 30 at City Hall. The council will discuss the tax rate and the proposed 2012-2013 operating budget.
The proposed budget will increase taxes by .02 percent, or $43,411 more than last year’s budget.
Notice of meetings are posted at Buda City Hall, on the city’s website and the tax rate and budget notices are published in the Hays Free Press.
