Woonsocket City Council approves 2025 budget with tax rate increase

The Woonsocket City Council convened on June 2, 2025, to discuss key financial matters, including the city’s budget and tax rates for the upcoming fiscal year. The meeting focused on the appropriation ordinance for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2025, and ending June 30, 2026.

The council addressed a proposed tax rate increase from $11.11 to $11.28, resulting in a 17-cent increase for residential properties. For homeowners with a property valued at $400,000, this translates to an annual increase of approximately $68, or about $1.32 per week. The council acknowledged the financial impact on residents but emphasized the necessity of these adjustments to maintain city services.

In addition to residential properties, the council discussed the implications for multi-family units. For a four-family property assessed at $600,000, the tax levy would rise by 35 cents, leading to an annual increase of around $210, or about $52 per family per year. Council members expressed their commitment to making difficult decisions to ensure the city’s financial stability, distancing themselves from past practices they deemed misleading.

The council unanimously approved the amended appropriation ordinance with a vote of 6-0. The ordinance sets the tax levy at $55,600, reflecting a slight increase from previous estimates to accommodate potential financial needs.

Further discussions included the operation of the regional wastewater treatment fund, which is also set for the upcoming fiscal year. The council moved forward with a motion to approve this ordinance, continuing their focus on essential city operations.

Overall, the meeting underscored the council's dedication to transparency and responsible financial management as they navigate the challenges of budgeting for the city. The next steps will involve implementing the approved tax rates and preparing for the fiscal year ahead.