The Battle Ground City Council, at their December 7th meeting, voted to keep City property taxes at the current 2009 level.

By state law, cities are allowed to increase their budget by up to 1% with an increase in property taxes. Currently, in 2009, the City will collect an estimated $2,253,991 in property taxes. Through the passage of Ordinance 09-15, City Council elected to collect $0 (zero dollars) over the 2009 level with a 0% (zero percent) increase. Holding property taxes to the current level will reduce the amount collected in 2010 by approximately $22,500.

New construction and annexations occurring in 2009 will add an additional $97,626 to property tax revenues to make the total estimated property tax collected $2,351,617 for 2010.

"I applaud my fellow council members who voted to not raise property taxes this year," said Mayor Michael Ciraulo. "We recognize the economy is hurting many in our community and now is not the time to raise taxes. Additionally, I am thankful for our city employees who constantly look for ways to save money and have stepped up to do more with less."

For more information about property taxes in the City of Battle Ground, please contact Finance Director Cathy Huber Nickerson at 360-342-5025.