Houston mayor suggests property tax increase to help pay for new $1.3B firefighter deal

Mayor John Whitmire is considering a potential tax increase as part of a plan to address the $1.3 billion deal made with Houston firefighters for raises, according to a report from the Houston Chronicle. The proposed plan could result in a $15 monthly increase in property taxes for homeowners in Houston, contingent upon voter approval.

During a conversation with former Harris County Judge Ed Emmett, Whitmire indicated that “everything is on the table” to fund the deal. Various funding options were discussed, including the possibility of implementing a garbage fee, as Houston is the only major city in Texas without one. Additionally, Whitmire suggested a property tax increase, which has not been seen in Houston for nearly two decades. He emphasized that the public may consider making an exception for public safety concerning the revenue cap.

The mayor highlighted the need for transparency and honesty with the public, stating that ultimately, voters would make the decision regarding the revenue cap. He estimated that the proposed increase would amount to $15 per month to ensure adequate response times for fire and police services, essential for a safe city.

The revenue cap, implemented 20 years ago in 2004, restricts the amount of money the city can collect in property taxes annually. While the city did not reach the cap until 2014, it has reduced the property tax rate nine times in the past decade to avoid exceeding the limit.