Tax notices go out at a 2.67 property tax rate after a 3–1 vote, above today's 2.50 and the no-raise rate

On July 27 four commissioners set the tentative property-tax rate at 2.67 mills — the top of this year's 10-percent band — so TRIM notices can go out at that number. Today's rate is 2.50. The rollback that would hold city hall to last year's take is 2.4273.

Finance built the draft budget on 2.67 and a 96 percent collection rate. A final yes in September would need four of five under the new two-thirds rule. Tonight, with four present, a simple majority was enough. Romero and Sweeny voted yes. George voted no. The motion passed 3–1.

George said she wanted it flatter, maybe 2.55, and that the board had already spotted cuts. Others said 2.67 is just the usual high first number. One commissioner said he can live with it for the notice and will not support it at the end.

First public budget hearing: 5:01 p.m. Tuesday, September 8. The mailed rate is 2.67 until they vote it down.