Ask The Mayor

Q. - I am fairly new to the city of Terrell at just a little over two years. I have noticed that the property taxes seems a little on the high side compared to other cities in DFW. We are at 2.92+. Houston is at 2.99 which is the highest in the nation. We are not far from that.

 

Over 50% of this comes from the schools. What can be done in Terrell ISD to cut costs? I am a military recruiter in Terrell and have noticed that most kids from Terrell ISD seem unable to pass the asvab test with a score of 31 out of 100.

 

What exactly is this money going towards...is there a budget publicly
accessible? Thank you for your time.

Answer - You have three major components to your property taxes: city, county and schools.

 

Our city tax rate has not increased in many years. As you look at city tax rates around North Texas one thing you will find is that the cities with higher property values such as Highland Park and Rockwall tend to have a lower rate. Our city property values and tax rates are more or less in the middle.

 

In Texas virtually any of your city, county, and school financial information is available to any citizen. Any information you need from the City is available at our web site or from the City Secretary. We are happy to provide it.

 

For information about school finances and other school matters contact Pam Stephens at stevenps@terrell.ednet10.net or phone at 972-551-0893.

 

Sincerely,

 

Hal Richards, Mayor