City Council approves alternate property tax plan with reduced rate for 2025

El Mirage City Council made a significant move during their March 4, 2025 meeting, approving a notice of intent to change property tax fees, including a new alternative proposed property tax. This decision is poised to impact local taxpayers, as it clarifies how property tax rates and levies will be adjusted in the coming year.

Council members discussed the implications of the proposed changes, emphasizing that while the levy—the total amount the city collects—will increase, the property tax rate itself will decrease. This means that residents will not see an increase in their tax percentage, but the city will collect more revenue due to new construction. Council member Norton highlighted that homeowners will maintain their property tax bills from 2024 unless their home valuations change.

Vice Mayor Parsons led the motion to adopt the notice, which received majority support, with only one dissenting vote from Council Member Gentry. The council's decision reflects a balancing act between maintaining tax rates and ensuring the city can fund its services through increased revenue from new developments.

As El Mirage prepares for these changes, residents can expect to see the effects on their property tax bills, which will be based on home valuations rather than an increased tax rate. The council's approval marks a proactive step in managing the city's financial health while aiming to keep tax burdens stable for its residents.