THE EVERETT ADVOCATE – FRiDAy, MARCH 3, 2023 Page 17 TAX INCREASE | FROM PAGE 4 “The third quarter is when the actual tax bill comes out — this is the actual tax bill. DeMaria said there’s only two bills left since the first two bills were preliminary bills, adding it’s always been like that since Everett was incorporated as a city. The mayor said they had this discussion in June, based on the type of property from condominium, single, two-to-three family. However, Hanlon said 90 percent of the city’s population didn’t know. “It’s a surprise to everybody,” Hanlon said. “I’m not satisfied with your answers — maybe it’s right, but I’m not satisfied.” Ward 3 City Councillor Darren Costa asked where does the city sit with peer neighborhoods collecting other sources of revenue. DeMaria replied that the city charges a lot less for fees, such as for camp, Senior Center activities, and the Recreation Center, than neighboring communities. Chief Financial Officer Eric Demas said the city has $7 million of Free Cash and $47 million of ARPA funding. Devereux said the decreased value of the power plant has resulted in a nearly $7 million deficit from the power plant relocating. “The amount needs to be made up by the taxpayers in the city across the board,” Devereux said. “Residents bear 72 percent of the tax levy — that’s the most significant contributing factor.” Councillor Martins asked what is the plan going forward, including short-term options. DeMaria replied he’d like to see new growth in commercial revenue, such as unused properties on Route 16, the former Stop & Shop site, and incoming apartments. He added renovating Pope John High School would also increase taxes further. “Since commercial revenues are decreasing, residential taxes increase,” DeMaria said. “All we can do is bring new development and continue to grow.” DeMaria said a similar increase happened at Orsogna Plaza a few years ago; however, at that time, commercial taxes were increased and residential taxes decreased. Councillor-At-Large Richard Dellisola asked if the city’s tax rates are comparable to surrounding communities, such as Saugus, Malden and Revere. Devereux replied that it is. Councillor - A t -Large Stephanie Smith asked if they expect that assessment will continue to go down. Devereux said at some point the cost to demolish the Exelon building would be offset by the scrap value. Smith said residents should expect another large decrease in revenue because of the power plant relocating. Therefore, tax rates will continue to rise. DeMaria said revenue from Encore Boston Harbor Casino and a forthcoming cityrun ambulance service is helping to offset expenses. “It’s great for those selling but not for those who live here,” DeMaria said. “If you want us to cut jobs, you may save on your tax bill, but we’d have to reduce city services.” The item was referred back to the sponsor. OBITUARY Farida Hawaz Owen ever she felt like walking to, always with a smile. Farida, most recently, worked at Target at the Gateway Mall in Everett as a sales associate for many years prior to her illness. Beloved wife of Ronald W. Owen for over 30 years. Services for Farida are private. O f Everett. Entered into eternal rest on Wednesday, February 22, 2023 at the Lawrence General Hospital after a brief illness. She was 67 year old. Born in Mekdadie-Diali, Iraq, Farida lived in Everett for most of her life. She attended college in Iraq and worked, while there, as a camera person in broadcasting. Farida loved and enjoyed walking. She would walk to her husband’s upholstery shop in Allston; Stop & Shop and Walgreen’s in Everett; and wherFor Advertising with Results, call The Advocate Newspapers at 617-387-2200 or Info@advocatenews.net
18 Publizr Home