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South Padre Island council approves 2025 tax-rate ordinance; vote 3-1
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Summary
The South Padre Island City Council approved an ordinance establishing the 2025 ad valorem and personal property tax rate, citing fire apparatus, ambulances and street work. Council recorded a 3-1 vote; one member opposed.
The City Council of South Padre Island approved Ordinance No. 25-077 on a 3-1 roll-call vote setting the ad valorem and personal property tax rate for tax year 2025 and fiscal year ending Sept. 30, 2026.
Council members and staff said the rate funds recent purchases and planned public-safety and street projects. Council members stated the change is expected to generate about $1,300,000 in additional property-tax revenue and said the amount equates to roughly $30 per $100,000 of taxable value as presented at the meeting.
The ordinance text read into the record during the motion described the rate as 0.262759 and set assessed valuation at 100% of fair market value, provided for discounts for early payment and for penalties and interest "in accordance with state law." The agenda packet that opened the public hearing listed a rate of 0.262159; council did not state a reason for the numeric difference during the meeting.
Council discussion centered on needs the revenue will cover. Councilmembers and staff cited a new ladder truck, ambulances and other public-safety vehicles, and street repairs and curb-and-gutter work. A council member noted that ladder trucks are expensive and replaced infrequently but are required to meet fire-rating standards for the city's high-rise buildings. Another member noted the council also took on debt this year to buy equipment, which increases the debt-service portion of the tax rate.
The ordinance was put to a roll-call vote. Councilmember Ken recorded a no vote; Councilmember Reese and two other council members voted yes, producing a 3-1 outcome. The ordinance language as read during the motion provides for conflict and severability clauses and an effective date; the council did not specify an effective date during the meeting.
Meeting presenters and members repeatedly described the rate increase as near 13 percent compared with the prior year, and noted that the city's tax rate has been lower than it was 10 years ago when it was 0.26 (26 cents) per $100, according to comments made at the meeting.
No public testimony was taken during the hearing; the council opened the public hearing then closed it because of the number of people present.
Votes at a glance Ordinance No. 25-077: Establish ad valorem and personal property tax rate for tax year 2025; assessed valuation 100% of fair market value; discounts for early payment; penalties and interest per state law. Vote: 3 yes, 1 no. Additional revenue estimated at about $1,300,000.
What remains unaddressed from the meeting: council did not explain the discrepancy between the rate listed in the agenda packet (0.262159) and the rate read aloud during the motion (0.262759). The ordinance text read during the meeting is attached to the official minutes for the record.
