Residents press Garden City for clearer notices and phase‑in options as tax proposal draws criticism

Residents at Garden City’s public hearing on the proposed 7.581 millage rate pressed elected officials for clearer outreach, options to phase in increases and accountability for local services.

Several attendees said the percentage change sounds large even when dollar amounts for many households were relatively small. Councilors and volunteers repeatedly urged residents to check and apply for local exemptions — including the Stevens Day and a $40,000 homestead exemption — and city staff offered to compute individual impacts if residents signed a contact sheet.

Tom Bethune, who identified himself at the podium, described organizing seniors to apply for exemptions and said he supports the tax increase if it prevents “drastic cuts that are going to affect the level of service.” By contrast, Chagari Williams, another resident, said services have declined and asked what additional services the higher rate would provide; he criticized meeting times and called for broader community notice of meetings.

Multiple speakers urged the council to reach seniors and residents who do not use the internet: suggestions included inserting notices into utility bills, coordinating with churches and faith‑leader networks and holding community sessions with the tax assessor’s office to help people apply for exemptions one‑on‑one. Council members acknowledged the outreach gaps and said they would “take a look” at mail or phase‑in options but did not commit to a specific schedule.

Residents also raised infrastructure complaints, including localized flooding and concerns about public‑works contracts and leadership. Officials encouraged continued dialogue at a scheduled workshop and offered follow‑up contacts for residents who need help completing exemption applications.

The hearing closed with no formal council vote; staff and councilors said the item would return for further consideration at upcoming meetings.