Why would the City, or any jurisdiction, want to increase revenue?

A jurisdiction doesn't only increase revenue to provide new services; they often need to increase property tax revenue to provide the same level of service as the year before.

While the revenue
neutral law is an important step for municipal budget transparency, it does not take inflation into account. As property values are rising, so are the cost of goods and services. 

To provide residents with the same (or better) level of service, it costs more. Cities often "exceed revenue neutral" and use a modest increase in revenue to help pay for things like the increased cost of chemicals for the city pool, asphalt for streets, mowing services, and other community priorities. 

If the City were to stay revenue neutral every year, they would have to provide this year's services, with this year's prices, on last year's budget.

Show All Answers

1. What is Revenue Neutral?
2. What is the Revenue Neutral Rate?
3. Why would the City, or any jurisdiction, want to increase revenue?
4. Will my property taxes increase as much as my appraised value increased?
5. Why are we letting you know about the taxpayer notification form and RNR?
6. What is the City doing to offset the increase in Appraised Property Values?
7. What exactly will be on the taxpayer notification form?
8. Where can I find more information regarding budget and property valuation?
9. What are ad valorem property taxes?