Forest Park City Council Proposes 1.21% Property Tax Increase for 2025 Millage Rate

Under the soft glow of the Forest Park City Hall lights, council members gathered to discuss a matter that directly impacts the wallets of local residents: the proposed millage rate for 2025. The city has tentatively adopted a millage rate of 16.74 mills, which, while remaining unchanged from previous years, will result in a 1.21% increase in property taxes due to rising property values.

During the meeting, officials explained that even though the millage rate itself has not increased, the surge in property values means homeowners will see a rise in their tax bills. For instance, a home valued at $100,000 will incur an additional tax of approximately $8. This increase is part of the city’s ongoing efforts to maintain essential services and infrastructure amidst changing economic conditions.

Residents are encouraged to voice their opinions and concerns at upcoming public hearings. The first of these hearings took place on September 2, 2025, with additional sessions scheduled for September 15, 2025, at 6 PM. These meetings provide a platform for community members to engage with council members and express their views on the proposed tax changes.

The council emphasized the importance of transparency in the process, noting that the millage rate is established annually by the council and is crucial for calculating property taxes. As the meeting concluded, council members expressed their commitment to keeping the community informed and involved in the decision-making process.

As Forest Park navigates these financial adjustments, the discussions surrounding the millage rate highlight the delicate balance between maintaining city services and managing the financial burden on residents. The outcome of the public hearings will be pivotal in shaping the city’s fiscal landscape for the coming year.