County officials say proposed budget for Fiscal Year 2018 will keep tax rate flat

County Commissioners held their last budget meeting on Tuesday before voting for and adopting a budget for Fiscal Year 2018.

County Judge Veronica Escobar said there’s going to be good news for county residents — the tax rate will not increase.

“I’m very proud of the work that we’ve done at the county,” Escobar said. “That means another year of no new taxes. That means another year of below the effective tax rate, so many El Paso home owners will actually see a drop in their property tax.”

Escobar cited things like a renegotiated deal with the Sheriff’s Union, and criminal justice reforms as keys to keeping the tax rate flat.

“We’re actually able to add a few more services, but not increase taxes, and in some cases some people will see a tax decrease,” Escobar said. “I’m proud of the way the commissioners court works together on these issues. We have the same goal in mind.”

Commissioners will vote on Monday to approve the budget and finalize the tax rate.