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Houston residents question tax-rate change at public hearing; Kent County gives $750 for Community Day
Summary
At a Sept. 30 public hearing on a proposed municipal tax-rate change, residents raised questions about assessments and the town's budget; a Kent County representative presented a $750 donation for Community Day and said county street funds may be available to assist Houston.
Mayor Gregory Wingo called the Town of Houston meeting to order at 7 p.m. on Sept. 30, 2025, and opened a public hearing on a proposed change to the town's tax rate under the Town Charter, Section 27(f).
During public comment, LuAnne Boone urged the council to send a townwide newsletter informing residents when items such as tax-rate proposals are scheduled. Resident Bill Moore said he estimated the change would increase his property tax bill by about $100 and added that he did not view that amount as severe. Resident Susan Washinski said the town “doesn’t understand the assessments” and expressed concern that hosting community events while the town runs a deficit could appear irresponsible.
Bob Scott, representing Kent County, explained the county’s assessment process to attendees and told council members that Kent County has street-funding programs that “may be able to help Houston.” Scott also presented the town with a $750 check earmarked for Houston’s Community Day; Councilman Gregory Gilmore thanked Scott for attending and for the donation.
The council took no formal vote on the tax-rate change during the meeting; the transcript records public comment, explanations of the assessment process, and a suggestion that the town improve resident notification. Earlier business included approval of the meeting agenda on a motion by Councilman David Mutter, seconded by Councilman Gregory Gilmore. The meeting adjourned at 8:01 p.m., following a motion by Mutter and a second from Councilwoman Robin Adkins.
Next steps on the tax-rate proposal were not specified in the meeting minutes.
