Wait… if the city gets its money from taxes, and they plan to raise revenue, doesn’t that mean they’re raising our taxes?
Not always—but often, yes.
And many times, it happens without using the words “tax increase.”
Three Ways Cities Collect More From You
| Method | What Happens | Is it a Tax Increase? |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Windfall Increase | Property values go up. The tax rate stays the same, but you still owe more. | No, technically — but your bill is bigger. |
| 2. Millage Rate Hike | City council votes to raise the tax rate. | Yes. This is a formal tax increase. |
| 3. No Rollback | Property values rise, but the city refuses to lower the rate to offset the increase. | Yes in practice. This is often called a “roll forward.” |
What is a Tax, Really?
A tax is money taken from you by the government, under law, to fund city services like roads, fire departments, and parks.
So if more money is taken from you, even if the rate stays the same, you’re still paying more.
That’s why it feels like a tax increase—because in effect, it is one.
Why This Matters
Some city officials may say:
“We didn’t raise the tax rate.”
But here’s what they often don’t say:
- “We collected more from you this year.”
- “We knew your home’s value went up, but we didn’t lower the rate.”
- “We voted for a roll forward, not a rollback.”
In plain English:
They may not raise the rate, but they’re still raising the take.
What You Can Do
Ask your elected officials:
“Will you vote for a rollback or a roll forward this year?”
Then ask yourself:
“Am I paying more—even if they didn’t say they raised taxes?”
The public hearing is set for Tuesday, August 5, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. in the City Council Meeting Room.
This is Political Vigilance
We believe you deserve truth in plain language.
We’re here to make the complex simple, so you can ask the right questions, vote with clarity, and protect your family’s future.