Hagerstown residents demand council reconsider property tax increases amid rising living costs

The City of Hagerstown held a special council meeting on May 13, 2025, to address community concerns regarding potential property tax increases. The session featured several residents voicing their apprehensions about the financial strain that rising taxes could impose on both homeowners and tenants.

The meeting began with Kim Crocker, a property owner from Frederick, Maryland, who expressed her concerns about the current economic climate. She highlighted the rising costs of food, gas, and utilities, urging the council to reconsider any plans for increasing property taxes. Crocker emphasized that such increases would force her to raise rents, which could jeopardize her relationship with her tenants.

Following Crocker, Marshall Fuller, a long-time homeowner in Hagerstown, shared his worries about the impact of tax hikes on his ability to remain in his home. He noted that while he has lived in his residence since childhood, the increasing financial burden could force him to reconsider his future there.

Willa Marquis, another local property owner, echoed these sentiments. She mentioned that while she has kept her rental prices reasonable, any further tax increases would leave her with no choice but to raise rents, which could negatively affect her tenants.

The meeting continued with Clayton Marquis, who also owns multiple rental properties in Hagerstown. He joined the chorus of voices advocating against tax increases, emphasizing the need for the council to consider alternative budget cuts to alleviate the financial pressure on residents.

The discussions highlighted a growing concern among residents about the affordability of living in Hagerstown amid rising costs. The council is expected to take these community sentiments into account as they deliberate on the budget and potential tax adjustments in the coming weeks.