"The conservative spending and fiscal management has continued since 2004, which has allowed the tax rate to remain. And in fact, the 2010 budget's tax rate was set below the effective tax rate," Dean said.

Once again, we're presented with the illusion that a flat tax rate is a measure of fiscal restraint while budgets (hence taxes) have increase dramatically. Fiscal restraint during that period would have led to tax rate decreases proportionate to appraisal increases. It's all about BUDGETS, and don't let them tell you otherwise!!

Excerpt from a previous blog:
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Folks, the tax record (below) shows that tax collections have INCREASED substantially during the period the tax rate has stayed the same -- over 33%, in fact.

Actual Spending from CAFRs
2004 - $33.93MM
2005 - $36.55MM
2006 - $38.57MM
2007 - $40.58MM
2008 - $47.82MM (+41% of 2004)

Budgeted Spending
2009 - $49.97MM
2010 - $46.49MM

(Note: Actual spending from CAFRs from 2004 to 2008 increased 41%. Still waiting on actual 2009 & 2010 spending figures.)
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