During a recent city commission meeting, residents expressed significant concerns regarding rising property taxes and the implications of proposed millage rate increases. One resident highlighted that their property taxes have surged over 40% since their purchase three and a half years ago, with rental property taxes doubling in the past decade. This resident pointed out discrepancies in millage rates between Altamonte and neighboring cities, arguing that the current rates, when including fire assessments, are misleadingly presented as lower than they actually are.

The resident emphasized that while Altamonte's stated millage rate is 3.1%, the total tax burden, including fire assessments, brings it closer to 6%. They urged city officials to provide clarity on these figures, asserting that the proposed increase would push the effective rate to approximately 7%, significantly higher than the rates in Winter Park and Maitland, which are around 4%.

In response, city officials acknowledged the need for transparency in tax comparisons, agreeing that fire assessments must be factored into discussions about millage rates. Another resident, Eric Soto, reinforced the idea that the current millage rate of 3.1% was deemed sufficient in previous discussions and suggested that the city explore alternative revenue streams rather than relying heavily on property taxes. He noted the potential for increased revenue from business tax receipts and the anticipated impact of a new multifamily development on the tax base.

Soto also highlighted the city's commitment to maintaining service levels without drastic increases in taxes, citing the city manager's confidence in the budget's sustainability. The discussions underscored a growing tension between residents' concerns over tax increases and the city's financial strategies moving forward.