Council agrees on two-year tax increase plan to ease financial impact on residents

In a recent special meeting held on May 12, 2025, the Torrington City Council and Board of Finance engaged in critical discussions regarding the city's tax structure and the implications of a recent property revaluation. The meeting highlighted the challenges faced by local officials as they navigate the financial landscape and seek to balance taxpayer needs with city budget requirements.

One of the primary topics of discussion was the proposed two-year phased approach to tax increases. Council members expressed concerns that implementing a one-year increase would place an undue financial burden on residents. By spreading the tax increase over two years, officials believe it will allow taxpayers to better plan their finances, including considerations for vacations and other significant expenses. This approach aims to provide a more manageable transition for residents, who may be facing various financial pressures.

The council emphasized the importance of clear communication with the public regarding these changes. They plan to explain that residents will see an increase in their taxes in two phases, which will help set expectations and allow for better financial planning. This strategy is intended to mitigate the shock of sudden tax increases and foster a sense of fairness among taxpayers.

Additionally, the discussions touched on the recent property revaluation, which has led to significant disparities in tax impacts between homeowners and commercial properties. Officials acknowledged that the revaluation did not yield the expected results, particularly in lowering the mill rate as anticipated. This situation has raised concerns about the fairness of the tax burden on private homeowners compared to commercial entities, which will need to be addressed in future communications.

As the meeting concluded, council members expressed a commitment to moving forward with the proposed tax strategy while ensuring that residents are kept informed about the reasons behind these decisions. The discussions underscored the ongoing challenges faced by local governments in managing budgets and addressing the needs of their communities, particularly in light of fluctuating property values and economic conditions. The council's next steps will involve refining their messaging and preparing for the implementation of the new tax structure, as they strive to maintain transparency and support for Torrington residents.