City of Port Wentworth Proposing Property Tax Increase

Hyper-growth Experiences Tax Proposals

The ever-growing City of Port Wentworth is proposing a property tax increase and calls upon its residents to voice their opinions before the proposal goes for a vote. According to City Manager Steve Davis, “The city has experienced hyper-growth – a staggering increase of over 40% in the past three years.” This growth spurt has also led to increased demand for government services, but meeting these demands bears a higher cost.

New Positions and Infrastructure Developments on the Horizon

The city is on the verge of introducing three new positions for police officers, three for public works, while six new firefighter positions will be added. The city also plans to construct a new fire station, set to open its doors in 2025. Davis asserts that these developments are not merely necessary but greatly overdue.

“We have two fire stations, exclusively on the east side of 95, serving just 2,000 residents, while the west side of 95 houses over 13,000 residents without a fire station,” said Davis.

Calculating the Tax Burden

The City calculates the property tax based on a millage rate; consequently, one dollar of tax accrues per 1,000 dollars of taxable value. The proposed millage rate in Port Wentworth will experience growth, rising from 4.16 to 5.216. This surge will equate to an increase of $84 annually for each household, as per Davis’ estimation.

Expansion of CAT Bus Services

Moreover, Davis mentions that another significant portion of the proposed increase will need to go towards funding the recently expanded CAT bus services in Port Wentworth. Davis anticipates that future legislative changes might shift the financial burden for the CAT services off the city’s tax bill and onto a specific transit tax.

“Right now, we’re funding that out of our General Fund. We’re looking for legislation to put into the CAT service district, so that we can then deviate this and have CAT charge the transit tax,” Davis elaborates.

Addressing Inflation and Providing Better Services

Like every other city, Port Wentworth is feeling the effects of inflation. However, Davis wants the citizens to remember that the proposed tax increase aims to fund the vision for a better city for everyone.

“We are consistently working on improving lives. There are multiple great things underway, and these undertakings require funding,” said Davis.

Engaging the Citizens for the Decision

The City of Port Wentworth has scheduled three public hearings about the tax increase at Port Wentworth City Hall:

• June 10, 2024, at 9:00 a.m.
• June 13, 2024, at 7:00 p.m.
• June 20, 2024, at 7:00 p.m.

The final decision for the new millage rate is due on June 20. If approved, the new rate will take effect from July 1.