During a recent City Council meeting in Rockport, residents voiced strong concerns over proposed increases in water and tax rates, highlighting the financial strain on local households. A consultant's recommendation for a 20% surcharge on out-of-city utility ratepayers was overshadowed by the council's decision to implement a 27.9% increase for water customers next year, followed by a 24.2% hike the year after. This multiyear rate change could be contested at the Public Utility Commission, as residents argue it unfairly burdens those living outside city limits.

Taxation was another hot topic, with a proposed 19.71% increase that would raise the average homestead tax by $252.15 annually. Over the past three years, residents have faced a cumulative tax increase of 52.2%. Critics urged the council to acknowledge the full impact of these hikes, particularly on retirees and low-income residents, and to refrain from downplaying the situation by comparing Rockport's rates to those of neighboring communities.

Several residents expressed frustration over the city's financial management, particularly regarding the construction of a new courthouse and city service building, which they believe has contributed to the need for higher taxes. They called for better maintenance of existing city properties and questioned the necessity of additional police officers given the city's existing law enforcement presence.

Concerns were also raised about property tax assessments, with residents arguing that increases should only reflect improvements made to individual properties rather than general neighborhood developments. One elderly resident shared her distress over rising taxes, stating that they now exceed her homeowner's insurance costs, and expressed fear that the city is becoming unaffordable for long-time residents.

The council also discussed amendments to wastewater service charges for inside city customers, aiming for a streamlined approval process for future rate increases. As the meeting concluded, it was clear that the community remains deeply concerned about the financial direction of Rockport and the implications for its residents.