City leaders in South Portland, Maine are sounding the alarm as property tax hikes are driving concerns among residents. The city council recently approved a 7.3% increase in property taxes to help fund the city’s budget for the upcoming year. This increase comes after a 3.5% increase last year, leading to growing unease among residents.
The property tax hike has been attributed to several factors, including rising costs for city services such as schools, public safety, and infrastructure improvements. Additionally, the city has seen limited revenue growth from sources like state funding and commercial development.
Mayor Claude Morgan has expressed concern over the impact of the tax hike on residents, especially in light of the economic challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. He emphasized the need for a balanced approach to address the city’s financial needs while also considering the burden on taxpayers.
City Manager Scott Morelli has highlighted the importance of transparency in the budget process and the need for community engagement to ensure that residents understand the reasons behind the tax increase. He has also emphasized the city’s commitment to providing essential services while being fiscally responsible.
As city leaders continue to work towards finding solutions to the property tax issue, residents are encouraged to participate in public meetings and provide feedback to help shape the city’s budget priorities. The challenges faced by South Portland serve as a reminder of the broader economic impact of property tax hikes on communities and the need for proactive planning and community involvement in addressing these issues.
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