Harris County budget proposal could increase property taxes by hundreds of dollars

HARRIS COUNTY, Texas (KTRK) -- A Harris County commissioner calls it one of the largest tax increases in county history, and now we know how much it could cost taxpayers.

In a matter of weeks, Harris County homeowners could soon learn what next year's tax bill will look like.

"That'll be the second largest increase in the history of Harris County," Commissioner Tom Ramsey said.

On Monday, commissioners discussed a budget proposal that addresses a deficit of about $180 million. To cut down the deficit, the proposal includes a tax rate increase that would go from 62 cents to 68 cents.

Here's what the budget office said that would mean for your property taxes. The average homestead appraisal, they said, is around $400,000.

If approved, they said the taxes on that home would climb by $226. As for who's to blame for you possibly paying more for property taxes, Commissioner Lesley Briones said it's on state and federal leaders.

"They keep passing laws that are unfunded mandates," Briones said. "The federal government continues to slash services that our county families rely on. Meanwhile, we are trying to stretch your local taxpayer dollars."

Judge Lina Hidalgo, though, said they have no one to blame but themselves after commissioners increased deputy and constable pay last year.

"No, it's not about state mandates," Hidalgo said. "No, it's not about inflation. Nothing amounts to the $300 million, probably $400 million with other increases that have been committed."

Hidalgo said in addition to taxes, commissioners will also consider cutting programs, including one that works with children of domestic violence. They'll also look at increasing fees, including those tied to evictions.

The budget office says spending is more than $320 million more than last year. Officials said healthcare costs, higher police pay, unfreezing some positions, and inflation are adding to the deficit that could soon increase your taxes.

"I wouldn't call that an East Texas poor man's budget," Ramsey said. "That is a pretty good increase in spending in one year."

None of this is a done deal. Commissioners will vote on a tax rate early next month.

So far, none of them are willing to commit to increasing taxes. Instead, some are eyeing the rainy day fund, which we learned today has about $320 million.