commissionercourtarticlepicThe last public hearing regarding the FY 2011-2012 Brown County budget was held Wednesday, September 28, 2011 with no comment from the public.  As a result, commissioners continued with a unanimous vote to adopt the proposed $14,944,154 budget for the next fiscal year.

Commissioners also approved the county property tax rate of $0.5169 per $100 valuation which is the same as last year, but will raise more revenue for the county due to an increase in property values and new property on the tax rolls.  The breakdown of the tax rate includes:

  • General Fund Rate          $0.4030
  • Debt Service Rate            $0.0364
  • Road and Flood Rate      $0.0775

Effectively this tax rate raises more taxes for maintenance and operations than last year’s rate by 7.75%.  County Judge Ray West clarified that this is not a change in the actual tax rate, it is noted as a change because of the total value of the properties on the Brown County tax rolls.

Commissioners also approved an across the board 3% raise to county employees, which also included elected officials.  The Brown County Sheriff will receive this 3% raise in addition to a previously approved $100 per month raise.  One Constable, Jim Byars of Precinct 4, waived his raise because he is a retiree and does not wish to have the increase in pay.

Discussion of the travel expenses was tabled until County Auditor Nina Cox can meet with Brown County Sheriff’s Office to coordinate necessary expenses.