Sometimes Asked Questions
Questions Asked Once and
Nobody Really Asked These Questions, I Just Made Them Up.
Q: How went the 5/27 budget public hearing?
A: It went. After 4 speakers, the board voted to close it. That’s that. No more addressing the board in public about the largest tax increase in the triangle.
Q: What do you mean? The public is allowed to comment on anything, right? It’s on the agenda every 4th Tuesday.
A: There is one public comment restriction – speakers will not discuss matters which are the subject of public hearings.
Q: Nobody told me my taxes are going up and now I’m finding out I don’t get to address the board. Oh great.
A: I’m sorry, you must phrase in the form of a question.
Q: What is…… nobody told me my taxes are going up and now I’m finding out I don’t get to address the board?
A: Correct, select again.
Q: So I have no options for weighing in on this tax increase?
A: You can call individual board members, because your elected board values public input. Phone numbers are on the town website. Or you can email them as a group at MayorandCommissioners@ci.morrisville.nc.us There will be an election in 2009. But that’s two tax bills from now.
Q: Why do you keep saying our tax increase is the largest in the Triangle? Our tax rate isn’t the highest.
A: No, our tax rate isn’t the highest. But there’s no reason why our tax rate can’t be very close to revenue neutral or 37 cents per $100 of value. The staff proposal is 19% higher or .4396
Q: What does that mean for me?
A: It depends which property you own. Do this: go to Wake County Real Estate Data search page. Enter your address (or name) and click. Look in the bottom right corner of the page with your property information. That’s your new valuation. Multiply this number by .4396 and divide by 100. That’s your Morrisville tax bill if the proposed budget passes. (You’ll also have Wake county taxes, new rate something like .5340) Next, compare your 2008 taxes with last year’s. From that same page, click the “Tax Bill” tab then click on your 2007 account. The left most column shows your 2007 valuation. Multiply that number by .4677 (last year’s tax rate) and divide by 100. How’d you do? Oh, wait. This is an A box and I asked a Q. Sorry. Look at the two numbers side by side. If you want to get the % change, divide 2008 tax amount by 2007 tax amount and subtract 1.
Q: I’m not good with all this math. Can’t I just wait until I get the bill?
A: Yes. But only if you like surprises.
Q: Where can I see a comparison of local revenue neutral rates?
A: (click graphic for larger view)
Rolesville, Garner, Fuquay and Holly Springs tax payers should send a note of thanks to their town staff and board members. All 4 are proposing a revenue neutral tax rate. Cary’s adding less than a penny. Morrisville? We win the Visine award for interpreting “get the red out” as “please raise our taxes.” (Graphic credit goes to Town of Cary and my DH.)
Q: Is it true Apex is building a new combination public safety building for $2M?
A: Yes
Q: Well then how come Morrisville’s new fire station will cost $3M?
A: Here’s something you won’t hear from your ‘Tis blogger often – Beats me. Maybe ours will be 50% better?
Q: How come you don't want Morrisville to have a downtown?
A: I think a downtown is a swell idea. But I don't think the Town of Morrisville belongs in the development business. We have neither the money nor legislative authority to buy up property for other than narrowly defined public purposes.
Q: Do you ever have anything good to say about Morrisville?
A: Yes.
Q: Well?
A: I honestly believe Morrisville, heart of the triangle with clogged arteries, is a delightful town. Our Parks and Rec department is a good one. Dedicated staff are in the process of making sure our annual Day at the Park (June 14th) will be a not-to-be-missed fun time for all. The town manager’s 2004 special census was a smart move. Our police and fire departments are top notch. But we need to address other issues, ones that are of importance to our residents – a reasonable tax rate, critical road improvements, responsible growth, a local government that is open and transparent. Responsive elected officials would also be ever so lovely.
Q: What’s for dinner?
A: Another FAQ for which I have no answer.
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