The almighty dollar

Budget season is here, and local elected officials are deciding how tax revenues are spent. To answer the questions, “Where do my property taxes go?” and “What do I get for my money?” Vancouver Mayor Tim Leavitt has been posting graphics on his Facebook page.

First, for city residents, here’s how the property taxes you pay to Clark County are distributed:

Second, here’s a breakdown of how $1 of your property taxes is spent. (“Other” includes the city’s reserve fund. And remember the city has revenue sources in addition to property taxes.)

For a more detailed look at property taxes, check out this story I wrote in December 2010. I even did a breakdown of my family’s property tax bill, and listed examples of what could be bought with our money.

The Vancouver City Council will have a public hearing on its proposed 2013-14 budget, 7 p.m. Monday, Nov. 19 at City Hall, 415 W. Sixth St.