By DIANTÉ MARIGNY
editor@portisabelsouthpadre.com
Laguna Vista property owners could see a lower municipal tax rate under a proposal introduced by the Town Council that would cut the rate by approximately 5.5%.
During its Aug. 19 meeting, the council introduced a Property Tax Relief Act that would reduce the town’s property tax rate by 2.5 cents, from $0.4541 to $0.4291 per $100 of assessed property value.
The proposal is sponsored by Mayor Mike Carter, Mayor Pro Tem Mike Hernandez and Council Member Teresa Bryant.
If ultimately approved, a home with a taxable value of $300,000 would see about $75 less in annual town property taxes, assuming its taxable value remained unchanged.
The town has maintained its current $0.4541 rate for the past three years and has not increased the property tax rate since 2023. Town officials attributed the ability to propose a reduction to budgeting, spending controls and efforts to maintain the municipality’s financial stability.
The proposal drew positive reaction following its announcement. Council Member Norma Parker, Place 3, called it “a great proposal,” while resident Annabelle Gray responded, “Thank you!”
The tax reduction was not the only financial matter addressed by the council. Members also approved a 3% pay increase for hourly town employees who have worked for Laguna Vista for at least six months.
According to the town, the increase is intended to recognize municipal employees while maintaining responsible financial management.
Residents will have an opportunity to weigh in before the tax rate is finalized. A public hearing on the proposed rate is scheduled for Sept. 8, and the council is encouraging residents to provide input during the open session.
If adopted, the $0.4291 rate would mark Laguna Vista’s first reduction in its property tax rate in at least three years.