Mayor Borowsky votes against property tax increase, warns of higher burden for Scottsdale residents

Scottsdale Mayor Lisa Borowsky voted against a proposed property tax levy increase Tuesday, June 9, citing concerns about rising costs for residents.

Scottsdale City Council held Truth in Taxation and public hearings yesterday on the proposed fiscal year 2026-27 property tax levy prior to a scheduled final vote on June 23.

The proposed combined property tax rate is projected to decrease from $0.9124 to $0.9068 per $100 of assessed valuation, while the total combined property tax levy is expected to increase from approximately $75.12 million to $77.99 million, according to a city staff report.

Mayor Borowsky says the distinction matters for taxpayers who ultimately pay the bill.

“While the proposed tax rate suggested a decrease, the actual tax collected was set to increase due to the annual increase in assessed property values. Given the strong financial health of the past year’s revenues, along with the overall budgetary cuts and positive revenues forecasted in the upcoming year, we had the opportunity to provide some relief to our taxpayers which I am proud to support.” “Scottsdale has been disciplined in managing its finances, and we should continue looking for ways to prioritize services without asking more from taxpayers.”

The proposed primary property tax rate, which supports general city services such as police and fire protection, parks and libraries, is expected to decrease from $0.4891 to $0.4801 per $100 of assessed valuation. However, the total primary levy is projected to increase to $41.29 million due to statutory adjustments and new construction growth.

Of Note: At the same time, the secondary property tax levy, which funds voter-approved bond debt, is expected to increase from $34.85 million to $36.70 million, with the rate rising slightly from $0.4233 to $0.4267 per $100 of assessed valuation.

Mayor Borowsky says she supports maintaining core city services while remaining mindful of affordability.

“Our responsibility is to deliver excellent services to our residents, which includes public safety, parks and infrastructure — while protecting taxpayers, she said. “I believe we can do both without increasing the overall tax burden.”

For a typical homeowner, the combined city tax rate will result in about $90.68 in city property taxes per $100,000 of assessed property value. The majority of property taxes paid by Scottsdale residents go to other jurisdictions, including schools, Maricopa County and special districts, with approximately 15 cents of every dollar allocated to the city.

City officials note that the Maricopa County Assessor determines property values, which play a key role in individual tax bills.

The proposed levy requires final adoption by ordinance following a mandatory waiting period, with City Council scheduled to take action June 23.