Misleading Tax Rate Discussion Tonight

[Accountability Advocates]

Good evening Commissioners,

In watching tonight's meeting, it appears that a bit of fact checking is needed regarding Commissioner McKee's property tax history as he discussed. 

Mr. McKee stated his taxes in 1995 were $1,061.36. Indeed they were:

Mr. McKee stated that his taxes in 2025 were $2,944.63 in 2025. Indeed again:

Mr. McKee presented this information as though his taxes had nearly tripled over a 30 year period. This, of course, did not account for any inflationary pressures or their effect on the purchasing power of the dollar. Adjusting for inflation, that $1061.36 in 1995 dollars had the same buying power as $2,240.64 in December 2025. 

When comparing 2025 dollars to their equivalent, this is a difference of only $703.99 - an approximately 31%. The question now becomes whether there has been a 31% increase in the breadth, width, and quality in the services that are being provided now versus 30 years ago. That is a question only you Commissioners can answer.

Tax increases should never be considered lightly, but they should be considered honestly. 

Accountability Advocates 919

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