Mixed vibes on the Tax Rate Election
And why are so many firefighters sick?
Today Mike Siegel became the first Council member to publicly support a specific level of tax increase. In a newsletter to constituents, he called for putting a 7¢ increase in the tax rate on the ballot this November. If approved, it would generate $154 million in revenue above what the city would otherwise be allowed to collect under the state's tax cap.
Said Siegel:
I know it is painful to increase taxation, but the alternatives are worse. We want pools open in summer, parks and roads maintained, health programs to promote immunizations, and housing programs to provide shelter. The federal government has cut tens of millions in grants and support for life-saving programs. But Austin can show, through this budget decision, that we are committed to caring for each other.
As one of the more progressive members on the dais, it's not surprising that Siegel is pushing for a TRE on the higher end. There are certainly others who are going to opt for a lower amount.
