🎧 Listen to This Article
The Chesapeake City Council is considering a 2-cent increase in the city’s real estate tax rate to boost public safety funding for fiscal year 2026. While the core proposed budget maintains the existing $1.01 tax rate, this proposed increase would ensure all additional revenue directly enhances safety measures, including upgrades for both the fire and police departments.
Key requests from the fire department include funding for new fire stations, equipment, staffing, and health screenings. They are seeking personnel for rescue units, critical firefighting apparatus, and staffing positions. Additionally, the police department aims to enhance its technological capabilities, requesting investments in mobile communication systems, drones, and specialized devices for crisis negotiations. The department also seeks additional personnel for increased patrols and emergency response efforts.
The proposed increase offers flexibility, allowing elected officials and the public to review the trade-offs between the cost of the tax increase and its benefits for public safety. As discussions move forward, the council is encouraging public feedback to inform the decision-making process, underscoring its commitment to strategic and outcome-focused budgeting.
The city aims to balance the need for improved safety with the potential impact on taxpayers, with full transparency and community involvement in shaping the final outcome.
For further details, clarification, contributions, or any concerns regarding this article, please contact us at editorial@tax.news. We value your feedback and are committed to providing accurate and timely information. Please note that our privacy policy will handle all inquiries
