Fitchburg voters face crucial referendum on property tax increase

Residents of Fitchburg will see a significant referendum question on their ballots during the upcoming election on November 5th. The question, which is mandated to be presented in a specific format by the state Department of Revenue, will allow voters to decide on a one-time permanent increase to the property tax levy amounting to approximately $3.6 million.

For those living outside the Madison Metropolitan School District, the referendum will be located on the backside of their ballots in the upper left corner. Voters within the Madison School District will find the question on the right side of their ballots, also on the reverse side, alongside two additional questions related to the school district's own referendum.

If approved, the tax increase will result in an estimated impact of $65.20 for every $100,000 of assessed property value. For the median single-family home in Fitchburg, currently valued at $457,800, this translates to an annual increase of approximately $298.49, or about $24.87 per month. A tax calculator is available on the city’s website to help residents estimate their specific tax implications based on their property values.

City officials emphasized that the referendum is crucial for maintaining and enhancing city services, which have been strained by staffing limitations. An operational review conducted by Baker Tilly last year revealed a pressing need for over 50 additional staff members to meet the growing demands of the community. This referendum is positioned as a necessary step to ensure that the city can adequately provide services to its residents.