By Peoria City Councilmember Bridget Binsbacher
At over 145 square miles, Mesquite is the largest of Peoria’s six council districts. It encompasses Lake Pleasant Regional Park as well as numerous schools, parks, commercial, and residential developments, including the Vistancia community. Here’s the latest news from Councilmember Bridget Binsbacher, who represents the Mesquite district.
Making Sense of Your Property Tax Bill
Have you ever looked at your property tax bill and wondered how to make sense of the seemingly endless categories and numbers? Well, you are not alone. Let’s try to make some sense of the city’s portion of the bill.
There are several taxing authorities that collect revenue on a tax bill, including the city of Peoria. Understanding the city’s portion can be helpful to knowing how our community pays for services, infrastructure and the quality-of-life amenities we all enjoy. Think of Peoria’s budget not as a financial document but as a policy document—a statement of priorities where our financial resources should be used.
The city has two tax items on your bill – primary and secondary property taxes, which makes up a small portion of the overall bill. Primary taxes pay for the maintenance and operations of the city. Secondary taxes fund voter approved capital projects like fire stations and parks.
Chances are you saw an increase in the amount of these two taxes. That is the result of an increase in your property value, not an increase in the tax rate. The Mayor and City Council have been very diligent in our efforts to keep this rate consistent. Providing the best services and minimizing the burden to the taxpayer is critical. In fact, residents have not seen an increase in 15 years. Your home is worth more because Peoria is a great place to live! Peoria was named the number one place to live because we use this money wisely to invest in the quality-of-life amenities we all enjoy – parks, libraries, streets, creating jobs and public safety.
Safely Destroy Paperwork at Free Shred Event
There will be a community shredding event on Saturday, March 19 from 8 – 11 a.m. at Copper Hills Church, located at 27035 Black Rock Boulevard. Take this opportunity to clean out files and prevent someone from stealing your identity. Bring everything from old bills, medical records, bank statements, and other documents containing personal identifying information.
Music in March at Paloma Park
Join the city for live music every Sunday in March from 4-6:30 p.m. In addition to an exciting lineup of talented local jazz, blues, and soul/funk bands, food trucks will be serving up delicious food and drink for purchase. Enjoy good music, delicious food, and ideal spring weather with the Peoria community. Bring your blankets and chairs!
Paloma Community Park is located at 29799 N. Lake Pleasant Parkway. The entertainment schedule for this event series features: Poppy Harpman & The Storm (March 6), Carvin Jones (March 13), Phoenician Blend (March 20), and Soul Power (March 27).
What would you like to see in your community?
If there is something you would like to see in our district, or if you have any concerns, I want to know. Contact me directly at 623-773-7306 or bridget.binsbacher@ peoriaaz.gov. Follow me on Facebook and Twitter and sign up for my e-newsletter on the Mesquite District page on peoriaaz.gov. Thank you for the opportunity to serve you.
