Impact on Melissa ISD taxpayers: No property tax rate increase.
The facts for Melissa ISD taxpayers:
With voter approval of both bond propositions, there will be no property tax rate increase. That means our tax rate will remain .31¢ -- or 20% -- lower than five years ago.
The district has received a Superior Rating through the Financial Integrity Rating System of Texas for their smart management of our tax dollars and spending.
Melissa ISD has utilized cost-efficiency programs for previous bond programs that saved taxpayers millions of dollars.
IMPORTANT NOTICE FOR TAXPAYERS:
Despite the confusing ballot language, approval of the bond package will NOT increase our property tax rate. A new state law requires all school referendum propositions to include ballot language that reads, “This is a property tax increase.” This language is required due to a small number of school districts that struggle to meet the state’s financial guidelines. However, that is not the case for Melissa ISD, which has received high ratings for financial transparency.
IMPORTANT NOTICE FOR SENIOR CITIZENS:
Homeowners 65 and older who have filed their homestead exemption will never see an increase in their property tax rates. Residents 65 and over are eligible for an “over 65” exemption. If you have applied for and received the age 65 and older exemption on your homestead, by law, your school taxes cannot be raised above their frozen level. The amount of taxes you pay is determined by the tax amount at the time your taxes were frozen.