The Durham City Council has approved its new budget. It includes a hike in the property tax rate by 1 cent, up to 56.75 cents per $100 valuation. Also included is a special tax for those in the downtown area.

Downtown property owners also face a 7-cent tax increase to pay for promotions, special events and hospitality services in a “Business Improvement District.

When you consistently elect people who believe growing government is the goal, this is what you get.