Concerns over sidewalk assessment costs dominated the New Prague City Council meeting on October 21, 2024, as residents voiced their worries about the financial burden of new assessments. One resident raised a critical question regarding the city’s policy on interest rates for assessments, noting that homeowners could face an additional $6,000 over 15 years due to the current interest rate of 3.445% plus a 1.5% markup.

The discussion highlighted the financial implications for homeowners, particularly those who may struggle to pay the $15,000 assessment for sidewalk improvements. Residents expressed anxiety about how these costs would be integrated into their property taxes and mortgage payments. Nicole Pernon, a local resident, sought clarity on the payment process, asking how the county would collect these fees. City officials explained that the costs would be levied to the county and spread over 15 years, impacting homeowners' escrow payments.

Another resident, Bruce Meyer, brought up ongoing issues with sidewalk replacements and the need for a punch list of repairs, indicating that residents are not only concerned about costs but also about the quality and management of the projects.

The meeting underscored the need for transparency and potential reassessment of policies regarding assessment caps, as residents called for more equitable solutions to avoid overwhelming financial burdens. As the city moves forward, the council will need to address these concerns to maintain community trust and ensure fair treatment for all homeowners.