Momentum - Business to Business Online Magazine MOMENTUM October 2019 | Page 22

CHERYL E. JOHNSON, PCC Galveston Co. Tax Assessor Collector [email protected] Why Vote November 5th? T wo reasons - your wallet and your convictions. There will be three bond elections (Friendswood, GC MUD 59 in Texas City and Water Control Improvement District #8 in Santa Fe), a Charter Amendment election in Texas City, a Galveston ISD Board election (Position 7) and 10 State Constitutional Amendments. Bond elections always result in a tax increase. Sometimes debt will be paid down or refinanced thus “making room” for new debt (so that the rate is not increased) but this is still a tax increase. Without new debt, the tax rate could be reduced. Local elections matter as these officials control local governments thus services and taxes. Charters define the organization, powers, functions and essential procedures of a city government making it the most important legal document of the city. The Constitution defines, thus limits, the structure, function and power of Texas government. Constitutional (or “off year”) elections have the lowest turnout of all elections because voters aren’t necessarily paying attention. This November 5th will provide an opportunity for you to weigh in on some important issues that will impact you such as Prop 3 (an automatic disaster exemption rather than reappraisal if you suffer damage), Prop 4 (prohibits a State income tax), Prop 8 (creates a replenishing fund for financing drainage, flood mitigation and control projects), and for animal lovers everywhere, Prop 10 (will allow law enforcement animals to be retired to their handlers or other caretaker). The impact of a yes or no vote is shown below (all begin with the words “The constitutional amendment…”) 20 MOMENTUM