Pettis County Commission Votes to Lower Property Tax Rates Below Maximum Allowable Levy

According to a press release issued on Tuesday morning, the Pettis County Commission has voted to lower property tax rates below the maximum allowable levy for the upcoming year, continuing its efforts to hold the line on local taxes while maintaining the funding needed to provide essential county services.

Presiding Commissioner Bill Taylor emphasized the Commission’s responsibility to operate county government efficiently while being mindful of the impact taxes have on local residents.

"We have a responsibility to make sure we are good stewards of the taxpayers’ money. We had the ability to levy more, but we made the decision to work within what we need and continue providing the services our residents depend on." Western Commissioner Mark Edwards stressed the importance of maintaining the Road & Bridge levy given the amount of work currently underway and planned for the future.

"Road and Bridge needs to stay the same because of the volume we have that we’re working on and have planned, even while trying to expand our services. We have a lot of work ahead of us, and we need to make sure we have the resources to get it done."

During an open session, the Commission voted to lower the General Revenue Levy at just $0.0875 rather than the maximum $0.3065 and set the Road & Bridge Levy at $0.2874. Eastern Commissioner Israel Baeza said the decision represents the county doing its part to limit the local tax burden.

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“This is us fulfilling our commitment to provide relief to the families of Pettis County. We have a responsibility to those we represent, and by taking these actions, we are leading by example. At a time when government continues to look for ways to spend more of your hard-earned money, it is our responsibility to serve as a line of defense for the taxpayer.”

By keeping the General Revenue Levy below the maximum allowable rate while maintaining the Road & Bridge Levy necessary to meet the county’s workload, the Pettis County Commission continues its commitment to responsible budgeting, maintaining essential services and holding the line on local taxes, the press release concluded.