New Orleans residents oppose tax hike but say it may be necessary

New Orleans residents oppose tax hike but say it may be necessary

City weighs millage roll forward ahead of Oct. 29 public meeting

NEW ORLEANS (WVUE) - New Orleans residents say they don’t want to pay more in property taxes but understand why a property tax increase may be necessary.

“It’s going to put a burden on everybody, but I’m not sure what else the city can do other than try to cut expenses,” said John Colomb, who lives in Lakeview. “I’m on a fixed income as it is, so I think everybody with a fixed income or even if you’re working, it still puts an extra burden on you.”

The city has said it’s considering a millage roll forward in next year’s budget as it recovers from a $220 million deficit announced last year. That would mean a higher property tax rate in the city.

New Orleans City Councilman Eugene Green said Friday the City Council will hold a public meeting on the proposal Oct. 29.

“We’re paying too much already. As the one coming out of pocket with it, it’s hard on us.” said Joseph Hardin, who lives in the West Lake Forest neighborhood of New Orleans East. “What can you do but pay it if you want to stay?”

The city said at a Revenue Estimating Conference meeting last wee...