Collin County residents may see their property‑tax bills rise this fall as the county commission prepares to vote on a modest rate increase. The proposed levy of $0.151 per $100 of assessed value would replace the current $0.149 rate, marking the first hike in more than three decades.
Why the increase is being considered
Commissioner Darrell Hale described the change as a “necessary evil,” acknowledging that while taxpayers dislike higher bills, the revenue is essential for maintaining courts, public safety and other core services. “I hate taxes just about as bad as everyone,” Hale said at the September 12 meeting. “Government’s one of those things that is a somewhat necessary thing. It’s how we have our courts. It’s how we have our public safety.”
Collin County has kept its tax rate steady for years, yet property‑tax bills have still risen because home values have surged. The Texas Public Policy Foundation’s recent study showed that county spending has lagged behind both population growth and inflation from 2015‑2025, prompting officials to address the funding gap.
Commissioners weigh options
Commissioner Susan Fletcher emphasized the difficulty of meeting growing demands without additional revenue. “It is very difficult to meet the demands that are out there and take care of our citizens,” she said. “Our citizens pay taxes. They expect the services. Nobody wants to go to the tax office and wait for three or four hours. And if we don’t keep up with the growth, we’re going to have that problem.”
County Judge Chris Hill pushed back, arguing that the foundation’s study used selective data and that the county’s budget actually grows faster than inflation and population combined from 2013‑2025. Hill suggested each department cut its budget by 2.76 % to avoid a tax hike and recommended lowering the salary range for employees from the 75th percentile to the 50th percentile. Fletcher and Hale opposed the salary reduction, warning it could hurt recruitment and retention.
Potential political fallout
Hill warned that raising property taxes could jeopardize next year’s bond election, noting, “I think we would do ourselves a favor by not increasing taxes the same year we’re asking citizens to increase their own taxes.” He also expressed hope that incoming commissioners, many of whom are retiring, will adopt a more conservative fiscal approach.
All current commissioners, including Hill, are Republicans, and the discussion reflects a broader conversation about responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars while ensuring essential services keep pace with Collin County’s rapid growth.
What’s next
The commission’s budget and tax‑rate vote is scheduled for September 14. If approved, the new rate will take effect for the fiscal year beginning Oct. 1. Residents will see the impact on their 2027 tax statements, reflecting both the modest rate increase and continued appreciation of home values.
Community members are encouraged to attend future commission meetings, submit comments, and stay informed about how local fiscal decisions affect everyday life in Collin County.
Original reporting: Plano Magazine — read the source article.
