Finance

Responsibilities

The Finance Department is responsible for maintaining accurate and transparent financial records for the City of Bridge City and for delivering timely financial information to the City Manager. It provides comprehensive financial support services to all municipal departments and oversees key operational functions including Utility Billing and Collections, Payroll, and the administration of Accounts Payable and Receivable.

Core responsibilities of the department encompass general accounting, cash and debt management, revenue collection, and the investment of City funds. Specific duties include oversight of accounts payable and payroll, managing utility billing and accounts receivable, overseeing grant reporting and cash management, administering cash flow and debt service, maintaining fixed asset inventories, and preparing a range of financial reports. The department also leads the development of the City’s Annual Operating Budget and the Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR).

To ensure accountability and uphold the highest standards of financial integrity, an independent external audit of all financial transactions is conducted annually.

finance department mission statement

The mission of the Finance Department is to serve the Citizens of the City of Bridge City with integrity and support City departments through sound financial management.

 The Finance Department’s objectives are:

  • To Demonstrate integrity, accountability, & transparency;
  • Maximize the effective and efficient use of public funds;
  • Execute directives and policies of administration & City Council;
  • Provide excellent customer service;
  • Build an effective and cohesive team based on trust, respect, and mutual support.









Tax Rates

The Bridge City City Council sets and adopts the ad valorem tax rate during the annual budget process, which begins in May and concludes with the adoption of the budget in August.  The ad valorem property tax is levied annually on October 1st based on the assessed value of real and business personal property as of January 1st of the same year.

The Orange County Appraisal District is responsible for identifying taxable properties within Bridge City, determining their appraised values, granting exemptions, and maintaining ownership and address records. For questions regarding property values, exemption applications, or changes in ownership or address, please contact the Appraisal District at (409) 745-4777 or visit the Orange County Appraisal District website.

The Orange County Tax Assessor-Collector’s Office handles the billing and collection of all ad valorem taxes on behalf of the City, based on the valuations provided by the Appraisal District. For assistance with your tax account, please contact the Orange County Tax Office at 409-882-7971.