Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Public Comment topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Local resident urges council to consider tax burden in FY26 deliberations
Summary
Lennon Roa, who identified himself as a resident and small-business owner, told the committee he supports the city but worries proposed tax increases will hurt homeowners and local businesses given prior rapid personal progress from homelessness to homeownership.
Lennon Roa, who identified himself as a resident of 36 Columbus Avenue and as a small-business owner, addressed the committee during the public-participation portion of the FY26 budget hearing.
Roa said he reviewed the budget and expressed concern that another property-tax increase coupled with a cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) could raise city spending by about 4% again this year, a burden he said would be felt by homeowners and small business owners. He recounted personal history — arriving in Lawrence after homelessness, becoming a homeowner — and urged the council to “please consider this when you guys make a decision.”
Why it matters: Public comments highlight constituent concerns about affordability and the local tax burden as the council reviews FY26 under the constraints of Proposition 2½.
Ending: Roa’s remarks were brief; the council acknowledged the comment and the committee continued with departmental budget presentations.
