Although No Official Meeting Notice For The Thursday City Commission Meeting (5/16/24) At 7:00PM (Eastern) At City Hall Has Been Published, This Is When The Property Tax Increase In The City Budget Will Be Discussed.
Image Credit: City of Soddy-Daisy – Government / Facebook
Submitted by Ryan Jenkins –
I generally approach situations with optimism and hope, always striving to find the silver lining even in the largest messes; it’s simply part of who I am. My love for our community is well-known, and I am committed to doing whatever I can to improve it.
However, I find it challenging to see the benefits of a property tax increase for the residents of Soddy Daisy, especially at a time when inflation and living costs are soaring.
While I believe that our city leaders and the city manager are acting with good intentions, I question the timing of this increase given the current economic climate and the recent surge in property development.
With more homes being sold and an increase in residents, shouldn’t we first analyze the potential revenue from these developments before considering higher taxes on existing residents?
To me, a tax increase now seems premature. Regardless of the motives behind it, it ultimately means less money in our pockets and more in the government’s. I am eager to engage in discussions on this topic.
Important notes:
– No official meeting notice for the Thursday city commission meeting on 5/16 at 7:00 PM at City Hall has been published. This is when the tax increase within the city budget will be discussed.
– The city holds budget work sessions. Four have been held up to this point. Dates and times are not shared on city social media or the website, but I confirmed they are held at the inconvenient time of weekdays at 10:00 AM.
– Some cities explore alternatives to property tax increases, such as a development tax which would require developers to contribute as they develop our town. One could see how a development tax poses a potential problem for politicians when those developers are their biggest donors.
– A citizen should not have to call city hall only to be told the meeting agenda will be posted two days prior to the meeting—the last legally possible minute—yet, it has been confirmed that a property tax increase is within the budget.
I will be urging our five city commissioners to stand against the proposed property tax increase. It is crucial that the public receives comprehensive answers to all questions, along with a detailed explanation from the creators of the budget, before any decision is made.
For those wondering, I am very involved in our community and run a citizens’ advocacy page called “Concerned Citizens of District One,” trying to bring transparency and accountability to local government.
