My taxes seem too high. Why is that?

Property taxes are determined primarily by three things: The taxable value of your property; the amount of millage levied by the various local units of government; and whether you have a principal residence exemption (PRE).   

The assessor determines the taxable value and issues a notice of assessment change each year typically in January.  This notice indicates what the assessment and taxable value will be for the upcoming tax year, whether there was a change of ownership and what the PRE status is.  You can appeal your assessment to the March Board of Review.

Often, new property owners do not realize that the property they purchase will uncap and raise the taxable value above what it was.   This results in a larger tax bill.   Likewise, if the property is undeveloped or a second home, it doesn’t qualify for a PRE and results in higher taxes.

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1. When are my taxes due?
2. Where do I pay my taxes if they are delinquent?
3. My taxes seem too high. Why is that?
4. Where do my property tax dollars go?
5. Where can I pay City bills?
6. What fees are charged if I pay a City bill via credit card?
7. What are the current water and sewer rates?
8. My water bill seems high. What should I do?
9. What are my residential garbage options?
10. Where can I find out more information about the City’s finances?