Worcester County commissioners approve 2¢ property tax reduction for non-resident owners

The Worcester County government held a budget workshop on May 28, 2025, where key financial decisions were discussed, particularly regarding property taxes and funding for the sheriff's office.

During the meeting, commissioners proposed a reduction of 2 cents in the property tax rate, which is set to take effect in July. This decision aims to alleviate some financial burden on property owners. However, there was some confusion regarding how this tax reduction would impact residents' tax bills. Commissioner Metresic raised concerns that residents might not see the immediate benefits of the tax decrease due to ongoing adjustments in property values.

In addition to the tax reduction, the budget includes a $2,000 cost-of-living adjustment for the sheriff's office. This adjustment is part of a broader effort to support local law enforcement funding. The commissioners confirmed that the sheriff's department would receive this funding, ensuring that essential services remain supported.

The discussion also touched on the elimination of the homestead rebate, which could further influence how property taxes are assessed in the future. While the tax rate reduction is expected to benefit non-resident property owners and businesses, the immediate effects on resident taxpayers remain uncertain, as they continue to adjust to rising property values.

Overall, the workshop highlighted the county's commitment to managing its budget while addressing the needs of both residents and local services. The next steps will involve finalizing the budget and ensuring that residents are informed about how these changes will affect their tax bills in the coming year.