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Resident urges council to explain large tax bill increases after county revaluation
Summary
A resident complained to council that county revaluation raised assessed values — and municipal taxes paid — far more than the town's reported average; town leaders responded by explaining recent tax-rate adjustments and long-term capital spending.
Dan Schellenkamp, a long‑time Indian Trail resident, addressed the council during public comment to challenge the town’s presentation of recent property tax increases following Union County’s revaluation.
Schellenkamp said he spoke with the county tax administrator and that the average residential valuation in Indian Trail rose by about 60 percent, which, he said, combined with the town’s new tax rate produces an average homeowner tax increase of roughly 47 percent for town taxes. He said his own home’s assessed value increased by 113 percent and that his town tax liability increased by approximately 96 percent.
Council members and the mayor responded that the town reduced its tax rate from 18.5 cents to 17 cents (per $100 valuation) this cycle to mitigate the effect of revaluation. Council also placed the change in context with past decisions, noting a bond referendum about parks and capital spending that contributed to prior tax actions. The mayor said Indian Trail’s tax rate remains among the lowest of large towns in the state and emphasized services provided. Council member(s) offered to review Schellenkamp’s spreadsheet if he forwards it to staff.
Council did not change tax policy during the meeting; the exchange was recorded during the public comment period and council members encouraged staff and residents to continue one-on-one follow-up with the manager and tax staff for itemized explanations.
