Clermont proposes 30% property tax increase

CLERMONT, Fla. — The city of Clermont is proposing raising its property taxes by 30%.

The city’s current millage rate is 4.2. At first, City Council proposed raising that rate to 5.75, which would have been a 48% increase. But last week, they decided to cap the rate at 5.5.

>>> STREAM CHANNEL 9 EYEWITNESS NEWS LIVE <<<

“The city has been kicking the can down the road,” City Manager Brian Bulthuis said.

Bulthuis said now if the rate isn’t raised, factoring in increasing personnel costs for fire and police services, the city may have to cut other services.

Read: Man charged in connection with Clermont double homicide

But homeowners and business owners say with cost of living expenses on the rise, now is not the time for a tax increase.

A downtown business owner said this will impact everyone, as landlords will pass the increases on to tenants, which will make it difficult for businesses to maintain employees.

Homeowner Kimmie Alexander said she understands that it could be necessary if there hasn’t been an increase the past seven years, but she said she knows it’s tough to do it now.

Read: CDC warns against enterovirus D68: What is it and what are the symptoms?

“Show me what you’re doing with these dollars that we’re giving now instead of putting food on the table,” Alexander said.

The final vote on the budget and millage rate is set for a meeting next week.

Read: Jack in the Box fast-food restaurant chain plans Orlando market entry

Click here to download the free WFTV news and weather apps, click here to download the WFTV Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.

©2022 Cox Media Group