Truth in Taxation

📰 Truth in Taxation

A Reporting Series by the Hansford County Reporter-Statesman

Truth in Taxation is a public accountability journalism project focused on how local government in Spearman and Hansford County handles your tax dollars.

At a time when the City of Spearman is facing a proposed $500,000 budget deficit, this series aims to do what every citizen deserves:
✅ Explain the budget process in plain language
✅ Track proposed tax and fee increases
✅ Ask the questions elected officials won’t always answer
✅ Empower residents with facts—not spin

We’re calling this project Truth in Taxation because we believe honesty and transparency are the foundation of good government—and good journalism.

Whether it’s a line item in a city budget, a comment at a council meeting, or a vote that affects your water bill, our newsroom is committed to following the money and keeping the public informed every step of the way.

This isn’t about politics. It’s about accountability.
And at the Hansford County Reporter-Statesman, we believe that’s what local news is for.

📬 Follow our reporting. Share it with your neighbors. Speak up.
Because when taxpayers are informed, communities are stronger.

Link to the Proposed FY 25-26 Budget

SCHEDULED MEETINGS:

• First Budget Workshop - Tuesday, July 22 at 7:00 AM at City Hall