Harris County Approves 8% Property Tax Increase

Harris County leaders have approved an 8% increase in property taxes for the 2024 tax year, a decision facilitated by state law allowing such hikes after declared disasters, including Hurricane Beryl. This tax increase is expected to cost homeowners approximately $160 annually for a $400,000 property. The approval comes amidst a contentious budget process, where District Attorney Kim Ogg opposed cuts to her office's budget, arguing it would lead to layoffs, though the county budget director claimed the current budget suffices until the end of the year. Additionally, the budget incorporates a five-year plan for addressing future structural deficits, with revenue enhancements accounting for most of this year's $26 million in deficit reductions. Critics, including State Senator Paul Bettencourt, argue that the decision reflects a pattern of excessive taxation by the Democrat-led county court without voter input. Meanwhile, the city of Houston is also preparing to vote on its own tax increase next month.