Chesapeake residents urge city council to halt real estate tax increases

Residents of Chesapeake voiced their concerns over rising real estate taxes during the City Council meeting on April 8, 2025. Many speakers urged the council to maintain the current tax rate, citing significant increases in their tax bills over recent years that have outpaced inflation and strained household budgets.

One resident, Sarah Waters, highlighted that her real estate tax bill had surged by 45% over the past four years, despite a rate reduction in 2023. She emphasized that homeowners are feeling the burden more acutely as residential property values rise faster than commercial ones, leading to an imbalance in tax contributions. Waters expressed concern about the potential future implications if city revenues decline, urging the council to prioritize budget needs without increasing the tax rate.

Other residents echoed similar sentiments. Lee DeMoor pointed out that his real estate taxes have increased by 30% over the last four years, despite no corresponding increase in income. He cautioned against the council's consideration of a proposed two-cent tax increase, arguing that citizens are already facing substantial financial pressure.

Bill Warren, a retired city employee, shared his personal experience of rising taxes, stating that he could no longer afford to live in his home if the trend continues. He called for innovative tax solutions, particularly for retirees on fixed incomes, and suggested reducing taxes on older vehicles to alleviate some financial strain.

Donna Ivins, a lifelong resident, raised concerns about the impact of rising assessments on seniors living on fixed incomes. She urged the council to consider lowering the tax rate permanently to ease the burden on residents, many of whom are contemplating leaving Chesapeake due to high costs.

Jeff Morgenthaler addressed the broader context of rising property values and inflation, urging the council to keep the tax rate stable or lower it. He also called for a comprehensive plan to manage the growth of new housing developments, ensuring that infrastructure improvements keep pace with population increases.

The meeting underscored a growing sentiment among Chesapeake residents that the city must address the financial pressures they face while balancing the need for public safety and infrastructure improvements. As the council considers its budget for the upcoming fiscal year, the voices of concerned citizens will likely play a crucial role in shaping decisions that impact the community's financial future.