News Summary

The Bristol, Tennessee City Council has approved a 21% increase in the property tax rate, raising it to $1.87 per $100 of assessed value. This decision, made amidst local opposition, aims to generate an additional $3.8 million for the city amidst rising costs and demands for public services. Council members supported the budget, which includes wage increases, while residents voiced concerns about the impact on low-income households and non-essential project funding.

Bristol, Tennessee City Council Approves 21% Property Tax Increase Amid Resident Opposition

The Bristol, Tennessee City Council has passed a budget that includes a 21% increase in the property tax rate, bringing the new rate to $1.87 per $100 of assessed value. This decision comes despite significant opposition from local residents, many of whom voiced their concerns during a council meeting attended by approximately 200 citizens.

After previous proposals for a tax increase of 30% and a subsequent attempt to set the rate at 24% were rejected last month, the council approved the new budget for fiscal year 2026, which amounts to $154.6 million. The increase is expected to generate an additional $3.8 million in revenue for the city.

Mayor Mark Hutton and council members Margaret Feierabend and Rae Akard voted in favor of the tax increase, while Vice Mayor Vince Turner opposed it. Councilwoman Lea Powers was not present during the final vote.

Financial Implications and City Budget Highlights

City Finance Director Holly Verran confirmed that the new budget incorporates wage increases for police and fire personnel, along with a 4.7% pay increase for all other city employees. The council has implemented a hiring freeze and postponed capital equipment purchases and projects, focusing on non-essential roles. This strategy aims to mitigate rising costs and maintain essential services.

Residents have expressed their discontent regarding the council’s spending priorities, particularly concerning funding allocated for projects such as a new skate park and the renovation of Todd Houston field. Citizens have raised concerns that the increased tax burden could disproportionately affect low-income and fixed-income households, potentially leading to displacement for those unable to afford the rising costs.

Public Sentiment and Future Considerations

During the recent city council meeting, many residents articulated their frustration over the tax increase and questioned the council’s financial decisions. There was also concern about the potential impact of further tax increases down the line. Some attendees encouraged the council to prioritize essential services over new development projects. In response to these concerns, Councilwoman Feierabend suggested that residents facing difficulties with their property taxes could look into local assistance programs.

A proposed tax rate of $1.92 was unanimously rejected just days prior to the final vote, highlighting the contentious nature of the discussions around budget decisions. The next city council meeting is scheduled for July 8, where a public hearing will give residents another opportunity to express their views on the budget.

Background Context

This tax increase follows a 13% increase in property taxes from the previous year. The city has faced rising costs and demands for public services, prompting the need for new revenue sources. Despite the council’s attempts to accommodate fiscal responsibility, the latest decision has sparked controversy and concern among residents about the sustainability of ongoing tax increases.

Mayor Hutton acknowledged the necessity for further budget discussions and improvements but could not assure residents that there would not be additional tax increases in the future.

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Additional Resources

• WJHL News
• Wikipedia: Bristol, Tennessee
• Supertalk 929 News
• Google Search: Bristol Tennessee property tax increase
• WCYB News
• Google Scholar: Bristol Tennessee property tax increase
• MSN Money
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Bristol Tennessee
• Herald Courier
• Google News: Bristol Tennessee property tax increase

Author: STAFF HERE BRISTOL WRITTER

The BRISTOL STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBristol.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Bristol, Sullivan County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion, NASCAR races at Bristol Motor Speedway, Border Bash concert series, and the Hot Bristol Night Car Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Bristol Chamber of Commerce, Believe in Bristol, and the Birthplace of Country Music, plus leading businesses in healthcare, manufacturing, and entertainment that power the local economy such as Ballad Health, Strongwell, and Bristol Motor Speedway. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.