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Residents tell council steep assessment increases and 3rd Street redesign are causing concern
Summary
During public comment, a resident said his 2026 property assessment rose about 25.9% and others complained the 3rd Street redesign narrowed traffic and reduced parking; the council explained the project aim was safety and infrastructure extension.
Several residents used the public-comment period at the Dec. 15 council meeting to raise concerns about property assessments and the 3rd Street redesign.
Martin Carpenter of 1128 5th Street told the council he received a proposed 2026 property assessment that rose "25.9%" and said he believed the city portion added another roughly 15%. "I'm on a fixed income. I'm retired. I'm getting pushed out of my house," Carpenter said, asking where the additional tax burden would go.
Resident Jean Madder (1133 Marshall) said the 3rd Street reconstruction made the roadway too narrow—especially in front of the post office—and removed parking, calling the change worse than the prior configuration. The Mayor and staff responded that the city held multiple community and planning commission meetings, that narrowing was intended to slow vehicle speeds (including truck traffic) and that the project extended water and sewer improvements while adding a wider pedestrian trail.
Council members encouraged residents to contest county valuations directly if they believe an assessment is incorrect, and said staff will continue to meet individually with residents and to provide more information about project choices.
