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The Record’s online poll from Sept. 6-20 asked readers whether they think the City of San Marcos should have a senior tax exemption.
In August, the San Marcos City Council approved, on the first of two readings, a tax rate of 61.39 cents per $100 valuation that is not exempt from taxation for the 2019 tax year. The previously adopted property tax rate was also 61.39 cents on each $100 of taxable value of real property. Though the proposed rate is the same as last year, if adopted, it will raise taxes by 7.97%, or by $45.30 for a $100,000 home, according to the ordinance. The increase in rate comes from an increase in property valuations.
Councilmember Lisa Prewitt brought up the idea of discussing a senior tax exemption in San Marcos. The city does not currently offer senior tax exemptions, though SMCISD and Hays County do.
Older taxpayers often find themselves in a position where their homes’ values have increased so significantly over the years that their tax bills have become almost prohibitive, at a time when they’re trying to live on fixed incomes. But senior tax exemptions can also cost the city needed money as the city continues to grow with the rest of Central Texas.
The poll asking, “Do you think the City of San Marcos should have a senior tax exemption?” received a total of 244 votes, with the majority of votes — 90 percent or 220 votes — going to option “Yes, seniors need to pay less taxes as they live on fixed incomes.” Ten percent of voters chose, “No, the city is growing and needs the revenue to address growth.”
A majority of poll voters think that the City of San Amrcos should have senior tax exemption because as most live on fixed incomes. Every week, the Record gives its readers the opportunity to voice their opinions on different topics. This poll does not, and does not purport to accurately depict public opinion. It is only intended to inspire thought-provoking discussion within the community.
SMDR’s new poll is available online now and asks for readers’ opinions on whether the City of San Marcos should embrace L.E.A.D., Law Enforcement Assisted Diversion. policies in the future. It can be voted on now at www.sanmarcosrecord.com.
