Council splits on removing voter‑registration as proof for two‑tier resident tax; continues item for legal review

The council debated proposed amendments to the two‑tier residential tax program that would change eligibility documentation and other program elements. The administration recommended removing voter‑registration as an acceptable proof of residency, arguing the practice created a potential fraud vector because some applicants register quickly to claim the resident rate without other corroborating documentation.

Manager Kennedy explained that some applicants without a state‑issued ID showing a Newport address had been registering to vote as an alternative path to qualify. “What that policy opened up was a... fraud vector where individuals who may not necessarily live in Newport... were simply registering to vote in a pro forma manner,” the manager said. Staff and the canvassing office raised concerns about enforcement and verification.

Several councilors pushed back, saying voter‑registration carries legal consequences and that removing it could create administrative burdens for legitimate applicants. Some councilors called for more information about the incidence and nature of suspected fraud and whether state election law would provide adequate deterrence or prosecution. Councilor Seglie and others argued for continued review; Councilor Carlin said he had not received prior input and expressed skepticism of changing such a tool without fuller review.

After lengthy debate and multiple motions, the council voted to continue the item that would remove voter‑registration as proof of residency so staff could provide more detailed legal analysis and clarify administrative impacts; that continuation vote was recorded 4–3 in the transcript. Other related ordinance changes (application window timing and fee items) proceeded on first reading with narrower votes.