Wilmington City Council seeks accurate tax assessments from Newcastle County

In the heart of Wilmington's city hall, council members gathered to address pressing concerns about the local appeals process and property tax assessments. The Finance & Economic Development Committee meeting on May 19, 2025, highlighted a growing need for transparency and accessibility in city governance.

Councilwoman Oliver opened the discussion with a compelling suggestion: to create a public space in the lobby for residents seeking assistance with the appeals process. Recognizing that many citizens struggle with online navigation, she emphasized the importance of making this information readily available. "We need to ensure that everyone knows how to access the appeals process," she stated, advocating for a partnership that would facilitate this outreach.

Council members quickly rallied around Oliver's proposal, with several expressing their support and willingness to co-sponsor the initiative. Councilman Hackett and others echoed her sentiments, reinforcing the need for community engagement in local governance.

The meeting also addressed concerns regarding property tax assessments, with Councilmember Willard raising alarms about discrepancies in the numbers provided by New Castle County. Citing a report from Tyler Technologies, she urged the city to scrutinize these assessments before they impact residents financially. "This resolution is about ensuring accuracy in our tax system," Willard explained, underscoring the council's commitment to protecting the interests of Wilmington's residents.

As the meeting drew to a close, the atmosphere was one of collaboration and determination. Council members expressed gratitude for the efforts of city staff and the administration, acknowledging the hard work that has gone into addressing these critical issues. The session ended with a unanimous motion to adjourn, but the discussions sparked a renewed commitment to transparency and community involvement in Wilmington's governance.

With these initiatives on the table, Wilmington's city council is poised to enhance public engagement and ensure that residents' voices are heard in the decision-making process. As the city moves forward, the focus remains on accuracy, accessibility, and accountability—principles that will guide future discussions and actions.