City council members will consider approving Allen’s 2017-2018 budget and tax rate following a public hearing set for August 22.
A proposal to lower the city tax rate from $0.520 to $0.515 per $100 of taxable value was presented on August 8, during the first of two public hearings at Allen City Council meetings. Despite the lower rate, a combination of new taxable properties and increased appraisal values would increase the City’s total property tax intake by $4.25 million, or 7.27%. See the official tax rate notice.
City of Allen Budget Manager, Chris Landrum, reminded attendees of how Allen property tax dollars are allocated. For every ten dollars you’re taxed, $2.17 goes to the City of Allen. Allen ISD collects $6.61, Collin County receives $0.88 and $0.34 goes to Collin College.
In the 2017-2018 Proposed Budget, property taxes represent 48.5% of the city’s estimated revenue. The balance comes from sales tax (20%) and charges for services (12%), along with franchise fees, licenses and permits, fines and other sources.
If the proposed budget is approved, the bulk of the city’s General Fund (39.4%) would be spent on public safety, including five new positions in the Police and Fire departments. Culture and recreation—which includes funding for Parks & Recreation and Allen Public Library—represents 26.3% of the proposed General Fund budget. General government (24.4%), public works (5.1%), community development (3.2%) and transfers out (1.6%) make up the balance.
Personnel costs are responsible for 64% of the general fund budget—a ratio in line with other cities and service organizations, said Landrum. The 2017-2018 proposed budget includes 20 new staff positions to help serve Allen’s growing population and expanding city facilities. View the full budget proposal.
Residents are invited to comment on the city’s proposed budget and tax rate at a second public hearing scheduled for Tuesday, August 22 at 7 p.m. at Allen City Hall (305 Century Parkway). Allen City Council will vote to adopt the final budget and tax rate on September 12.