Cheshire's proposed mill rate set at 29.87 amid comparative analysis with neighboring towns

During the recent Cheshire Town Council Board of Education Budget Meeting, significant discussions centered around the proposed mill rate for the upcoming fiscal year. The proposed mill rate is set at 29.87, which will affect residential property taxes. For the average homeowner, this translates to an increase in taxes from $8,175 to $8,893. Additionally, there is a slight reduction in car taxes due to a decrease in vehicle values.

The meeting also included a comparative analysis of Cheshire's mill rate against those of neighboring towns. Notably, towns undergoing revaluation in October 2024, such as Wallingford, Prospect, and North Haven, were excluded from this comparison to avoid skewing the data. Currently, Cheshire's mill rate is competitive with similar municipalities, suggesting that it remains in a favorable position relative to its peers.

A key point raised during the meeting was the reliance on property taxes as the primary source of revenue for the town. With property taxes accounting for approximately 80% of the town's revenue, the council faces challenges in diversifying income sources. The limited options for revenue generation, such as modest fees and declining state grants, highlight the ongoing frustrations for council members and residents alike regarding the property tax system.

In summary, the meeting underscored the financial pressures facing Cheshire as it navigates budgetary constraints and the implications of property tax increases on residents. As the council moves forward, the focus will likely remain on balancing the budget while addressing community concerns about taxation and revenue generation.