Patra residents voice frustration over rising property taxes at Brookhaven meeting

The Patchogue Board of Trustees meeting on January 27, 2025, focused heavily on rising property taxes, with residents expressing concerns about the financial strain on homeowners. During the public comment section, Pasquale DeJesseu, a long-time resident, highlighted his personal experience with property tax increases, which have surged from $4,800 to approximately $12,000 over the past two decades. He noted a significant 10% increase in the last two years alone, raising alarms about the sustainability of such hikes amid stagnant income growth.

DeJesseu emphasized the disconnect between rising taxes and the lack of corresponding increases in income, particularly for retirees on fixed pensions. He called for greater transparency in how tax revenues are spent and suggested that the community needs to advocate for changes, especially regarding school taxes, which he identified as a major contributor to the financial burden.

Another resident echoed DeJesseu's sentiments, pointing out that despite efforts to vote down school tax increases, they continue to rise. This frustration was met with acknowledgment from board members, who expressed their understanding of the challenges faced by taxpayers. They reassured residents that the village government has maintained fiscal discipline, keeping tax increases below 2% annually.

The board members also discussed their commitment to managing expenses carefully and utilizing grants to minimize the impact on taxpayers. However, the conversation underscored a growing concern among residents about the long-term viability of homeownership in Patchogue, as they grapple with the implications of rising property taxes in an environment of stagnant wages and increasing living costs.

As the meeting concluded, it was clear that the issue of property taxes would remain a critical topic for the community, with residents urging the board to explore solutions that could alleviate their financial pressures. The board's commitment to fiscal responsibility will be tested as they navigate these ongoing challenges in the coming years.