July debrief
Police oversight
The city council approved a charter change on police oversight, placing it on the November ballot. This charter change will empower the Police Commission and increase transparency. Beyond this charter change, more needs to be done to address community safety and build genuine trust between our police department and community. We recognize the imperfections in this ballot item, and are proud that we were able to pass a bi-partisan measure on what has been a divisive issue in our community. It’s a step in the right direction, but is not the destination.
The council will hold two public hearings on the proposed charter change in August, before the measure is placed on the November ballot.
Tax fairness
It’s time to have a conversation about property taxes, and take concrete action to relieve the burden on working and middle class families, those on a fixed income, and young people just starting out.
Since the 2021 property reappraisal, property tax bills for single-family homes went up by an average of about $960 - that’s an 11% increase.
While the reappraisal was intended to be revenue-neutral, the property tax burden was shifted to homeowners and away from commercial property owners in the midst of a global pandemic that deflated commercial value and inflated residential property values.
Residential homeowners, most of whom are middle and working class , are now shouldering the lion's share of the city's property tax. Burlingtonians struggle to live, work, and age in place because of the systemic flaws that have led to inequitable taxation. So, what do we do?
Learn more in this video with Councilors Kane, Bergman, and Neubieser:
Central district councilor Meet & Greet
Join Councilors Grant, Kane, and Bergman for a discussion session at Roosevelt Park on Thursday, August 1st at 6pm at Roosevelt Park. This is an opportunity to discuss your concerns about the state of our city, get to know your neighbors and representatives, and get up-to-date information on efforts to move our city forward by Central District Councilors. All are welcome.
