Today the new 10-1 council passed their first budget. For the first time in many years, the median-priced home will see a reduction in taxes. The council was also able to include millions for much-needed social service spending and parks.



“Austin can be proud of this budget, which reduces taxes while increasing social services,” Mayor Steve Adler said. “This is a responsible budget that includes significant investments in affordability and equity, all while ensuring that the taxpayers of Austin are able to realize a dividend from the tremendous growth in our community.”





The adopted budget includes a 6% homestead exemption, an increase in the exemption for seniors and disabled residents from $70,000 to $80,000, a 3% across the board raise for all city employees, and nearly $9 million in additional social service spending.



At the very end of the process, there was $1 million in unallocated funds. The council voted to return that to taxpayers by further lowering the tax rate. ###