Resident Joe Cutterley urges Essex Junction to revert tax mail policies
September 25, 2025 | Essex Junction City, Chittenden County, Vermont
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During the Essex Junction City Council meeting on September 24, 2025, a significant public concern was raised regarding the handling of tax payments, which has implications for many residents. Joe Cutterley, a long-time resident, expressed frustration over a recent issue he faced with his city taxes. He mailed his payment on September 6, but it was not received by the city until September 16, resulting in a late fee notice.
Cutterley highlighted a change in the city’s policy since its incorporation, which no longer accepts postmarked mail as proof of timely payment. He argued that this shift has created unnecessary complications for residents, especially those who rely on mailing their payments. He emphasized the need for accountability in the payment process, suggesting that returning to the previous standard of accepting postmarked mail would alleviate confusion and prevent late fees for residents who mail their checks.
The discussion also touched on the accessibility of payment options, with Cutterley noting that many residents work during city office hours, making it difficult to drop off payments in person. While the city does have a drop box available 24/7, Cutterley raised concerns about the reliability of this method, fearing that payments could be misplaced.
City officials responded to Cutterley’s comments, clarifying that the late fees he experienced were not due to arbitrary policies regarding the spelling of the city’s name on checks, as he had suggested. They assured him that the city aims to be fair in its assessment of late fees.
In addition to the tax payment discussion, the meeting included an annual report from the Chittenden County Regional Planning Commission, indicating ongoing efforts to improve community services and infrastructure.
As the city council continues to address these concerns, residents are encouraged to participate in future public forums to voice their opinions and seek solutions that enhance the community's financial processes. The council's responsiveness to public feedback will be crucial in shaping policies that affect the daily lives of Essex Junction residents.
Cutterley highlighted a change in the city’s policy since its incorporation, which no longer accepts postmarked mail as proof of timely payment. He argued that this shift has created unnecessary complications for residents, especially those who rely on mailing their payments. He emphasized the need for accountability in the payment process, suggesting that returning to the previous standard of accepting postmarked mail would alleviate confusion and prevent late fees for residents who mail their checks.
The discussion also touched on the accessibility of payment options, with Cutterley noting that many residents work during city office hours, making it difficult to drop off payments in person. While the city does have a drop box available 24/7, Cutterley raised concerns about the reliability of this method, fearing that payments could be misplaced.
City officials responded to Cutterley’s comments, clarifying that the late fees he experienced were not due to arbitrary policies regarding the spelling of the city’s name on checks, as he had suggested. They assured him that the city aims to be fair in its assessment of late fees.
In addition to the tax payment discussion, the meeting included an annual report from the Chittenden County Regional Planning Commission, indicating ongoing efforts to improve community services and infrastructure.
As the city council continues to address these concerns, residents are encouraged to participate in future public forums to voice their opinions and seek solutions that enhance the community's financial processes. The council's responsiveness to public feedback will be crucial in shaping policies that affect the daily lives of Essex Junction residents.
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