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Southbridge forum spotlights split tax-rate debate and options to raise revenue beyond property taxes
Summary
Candidates diverged on whether Southbridge should adopt a split tax rate and discussed strategies to generate revenue without raising property taxes, citing past town revenue sources and grant opportunities.
Split tax rate: At the town election forum, candidates debated whether Southbridge should shift from its current single residential/commercial tax structure to a split rate that taxes commercial property at a different rate than residential property.
David Adams said he has "supported the single tax rate all the way through," noting Southbridge currently has a relatively small commercial tax base. "We're still about 80% residential taxes," he said, arguing the town lacks sufficient business-to-commercial tax revenue to absorb a split rate without unintended consequences.
Other candidates said a split rate could be considered sooner if the town attracts more businesses and restores confidence in its schools and local economy. Councilor Michael Montigny urged that the town "get back to basics first" — improve schools and infrastructure so businesses will want to locate in Southbridge before experimenting with a split rate.
Alternative revenue ideas: Candidates discussed revenue sources beyond property tax increases. Jasmine Rivas suggested town-managed streams such as selling compost produced by the wastewater treatment facility and more efficient use of surplus vehicles and town-owned properties.
Montigny and other candidates also cited lost former revenue streams. "We used to make almost $2,000,000 a year off trash for revenue" before the town ceased running its own landfill, Montigny said. He also noted past arrangements involving the town’s water system and neighboring municipalities had reduced ongoing revenues. David Adams recommended continued use of the redevelopment authority and Southbridge Business Partnership to pursue grants and to refurbish and reuse vacant properties.
Candidates pointed to use of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds and CDBG grants to support small-business redevelopment. Adams noted the council gave $300,000 in ARPA funds to an economic team to support low- and medium-sized businesses and suggested expanding similar programs.
Ending: The debate tied fiscal policy to other priorities: schools, infrastructure and business attraction. Candidates agreed that bringing businesses into town and improving municipal services would expand options for revenue generation without placing disproportionate burdens on homeowners.
