Imagine my surprise when I opened my new tax bill from the city of Easthampton to learn that my taxes did not simply increase by the anticipated 25% after approving a tax spending increase for the new K-8 school to be built, but in fact my taxes increased by 77%.
Yes, you read that correctly, 77%. For all of Mayor Nicole LaChapelle’s claims of transparency in government, she failed to notify residents that not only would our tax rate increase by 25%, but our assessments would also increase from 25% to 45%.
I own a few rental properties in the city and I am very proud of the fact that I invest substantially in my properties. Many times I have converted properties that were neglected and run down into beautiful homes again. How can I continue to invest in improvements in our average 100-year-old mill housing when all of my rental property taxes increased by a minimum of 71%?
When calculated out, the impact to each unit averages about $100 per month. It is one thing to ask the citizens to agree to an increase to make an important investment in our city’s schools, but to then increase the property assessments at the same time, by such a staggering amount, it can only be described as underhanded and devious.
I fear for all Easthampton citizens and their ability to continue to live in their homes and apartments. Is Easthampton doomed to repeat the errors of Northampton?
Melissa Knybel
Easthampton