Fiscal Year 2027 Property Tax Increase

Commended the council for lowering the tax increase from 16% to 8%, but argued that the city should look harder at cutting expenses and salaries rather than raising property taxes.

Spoke in favor of the tax increase, arguing that the city has a fundamental duty to protect citizens and maintain adequate staffing levels for police and firefighters.

Expressed concern that property tax increases are a 'death by a thousand cuts' for residents facing rising home values and inflation, suggesting non-essential city programs should be cut first.

Defended first responders and argued that cutting taxes means cutting essential services like police, fire, parks, and libraries, while noting past low wages for officers.