Stratford Town Council Approves Budget with Three-Year Tax Reassessment Phase-In to Alleviate Property Owner Burden

Stratford Town Council Approves Budget Amid Rising Property Values and Tax Concerns

STRATFORD, CT — In a decisive move this week, the Stratford Town Council approved a $277.69 million operating budget for the fiscal year 2026-27, aimed at addressing the financial pressures facing residents amid a state-mandated property revaluation. The budget passed with a 7-3 vote, reflecting a clear divide along party lines, with the Democratic majority supporting the plan and three Republican council members opposing it.

The newly adopted budget includes a three-year phase-in of property reassessments, designed to mitigate the immediate tax burden on homeowners whose property values have surged—some by as much as 80 percent. The town’s mill rate has been reduced from 40.20 to 37.73 mills, yet many residents will still experience tax increases due to the revaluation.

Mayor David Chess emphasized that the phase-in approach does not alter the total reassessed property values but rather distributes the tax burden over three years. “This is about making the transition smoother for homeowners,” Chess explained in a newsletter to residents.

Democratic councilors hailed the budget as a comprehensive plan that funds essential public services, education, and community priorities while addressing the financial challenges posed by the reassessment and rising local needs. “This was not an easy budget,” said Council Chairman Anthony Afriyie. “We faced a difficult set of realities, including reassessment pressure and a significant budget shortfall.”

The council’s efforts included identifying a nearly $5 million budget gap stemming from accounting issues and lower-than-expected tax collection rates. “Leaving that gap unresolved would have weakened the town’s fiscal position,” noted Councilor William Boyd, highlighting the need for fiscal responsibility while protecting taxpayers.

Despite the Democratic majority’s support, Republican Councilman Carl Glad expressed disappointment, arguing that the budget does not do enough for taxpayers. He criticized the council for not adopting proposed cuts that could have saved residents millions. “Our current municipal spending is unsustainable,” Glad stated, urging for a more taxpayer-friendly approach in future budgets.

In a recent update, Mayor Chess announced that the State Legislature did not repeal the Homestead Act, which could provide additional relief for homeowners. He plans to propose adopting the Homestead Act next year, potentially lowering tax burdens significantly for many residents.

As Stratford navigates these financial challenges, the council remains committed to balancing fiscal responsibility with the needs of its community, ensuring that essential services and support systems remain intact.