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Residents urge board to limit tax increases, citing seniors and affordability
Summary
Multiple residents told the Isle of Wight Board at a public hearing that a significant tax increase would harm retirees and struggling families; commenters urged the board to use existing school reserves or cuts instead of higher taxes.
Several residents addressed the Board of Supervisors during the public hearing on the tax rate, repeatedly warning that a substantial increase would hit seniors and fixed‑income households hardest.
A resident introduced by the chair as Volkin (District 5) said the county cannot sustain large salary increases paid for by higher property taxes and warned "When you raise taxes, it comes out of the quality of life and ability ... to purchase food and medicine." Herbie Groff pressed the board to ensure unspent school funds are used before increasing taxes, and Jordana Luck cautioned that a reassessment next year would intensify the burden on homeowners.
Shelley Perry, who gave a street address during her comment, told supervisors that some requests in the schools' budget should be refused and said, "Say no," urging the board to prioritize needs over wants. Another speaker, DeGrice, framed the increase as a result of expenditures exceeding projected revenue and cautioned that Social Security recipients and other residents would feel the impact.
The board heard these concerns before adopting an 81¢ rate; supervisors and staff acknowledged the tradeoffs between using one‑time funds to limit this year's rate and the possibility of higher pressure on rates in following years.
