Communist Maine Mayor to Senior Citizen constituents: "Just Get a Reverse Mortgage to pay your skyrocketing property taxes."

Maine Mayor on Property Tax Hikes: “Seniors may want to consider a reverse mortgage”

South Portland Mayor suggests a reverse mortgage is a solution to increasing property tax bills for the city's elderly homeowners

Edward TomicBy Edward TomicSeptember 23, 2024Updated:September 23, 2024

Amid discussion regarding recent property tax hikes at a South Portland City Council meeting last month, Mayor Misha Pride suggested that elderly residents living on a fixed income may want to consider reverse mortgaging their homes to manage the growing tax burden.

[RELATED: South Portland Residents Passionately Address Property Tax Concerns at City Council Meeting…]

At the Tuesday, Aug. 13 meeting, the City Council was discussing a proposal to allocate an additional $50,000 to the city’s Senior Property Tax Relief Fund, in response to a shift of the tax burden from South Portland’s commercial properties to residential ones, caused by the city’s most recent revaluation.

The fund, launched in 2011 and designed to provide financial relief to qualifying seniors, has undergone several amendments over the years.

According to South Portland Tax Assessor Brent Martin, the age for eligibility has been lowered from 70 to 65, and the maximum relief amount per household has increased from $300 to $500.

However, actual benefits are often pro-rated based on available funds and the number of applicants, with the average benefit in 2024 being just $258, Martin wrote in a memo to the City Council.

With higher property taxes caused by the revaluation, more elderly South Portland homeowners could be applying for tax relief, meaning a lower average benefit under the fund for those seniors unless additional funds are allocated into the program.

[RELATED: “I’m Definitely Not Getting My Money’s Worth on These Taxes”: Mainers’ Frustrated Over Property Tax Hikes…]

During discussion on the proposal of allocating additional funds to the tax relief fund, South Portland Mayor Misha Pride described the “perfect storm” in the city that led to recent revaluation causing the spike in property taxes.

“This is very much a perfect storm,” Mayor Pride said. “We live in a coastal community, it’s very attractive to live here. And unfortunately, that means lots of people are buying lots of residential properties.”

“It’s not that commercial is necessarily doing poorly, it’s that there isn’t enough buying and selling of commercial properties to warrant reviewing and raising those percentages…so it’s a really difficult position to be in,” he continued.

Residential property sales outpacing commercial sales has resolution in property value growth on the residential side, meaning that under the revaluation, residential property owners are now bearing more of the property tax burden.

>>21650771

>Communist Maine Mayor to Senior Citizen constituents: "Just Get a Reverse Mortgage to pay your skyrocketing property taxes."

[RELATED: South Portland Directs $150,000 in State Funds to Help Migrants Currently Staying at Hotel Find Permanent Housing…]

The mayor expressed his empathy for residents dealing with the rising costs, noting that his own property taxes had steadily increased over the past five years.

“I’m really sad, and, you know, my taxes are going up too — and have every year for the last five years, my valuation’s gone up every year for the last five years,” Pride said. “I didn’t have the jump that a lot people saw because mine has been steadily going up every year.”

Then, in addressing the financial pressures the taxes are placing on the city’s seniors, Mayor Pride made a suggestion that triggered an audible gasp and agitation among those present at the August meeting: that elderly homeowners in South Portland take out a reverse mortgage on their homes.

“I just sort of throw this out there because I’ve also been thinking a lot about how especially those with fixed incomes can deal with this, it is kind of a last resort measure, but seeing as our property values are so high, seniors may want to consider a reverse mortgage,” Pride said.

“I know it’s an ugly word,” he admitted, “but there are — I’m just saying, I know it’s horrible, but it’s sort of a last resort.”

Pride clarified that he does not recommend reverse mortgages lightly, but with the significant rise in property values, it could be a viable option for some seniors on fixed incomes. “It’s not something I’d advise someone on first blush,” he added.

[RELATED: Sticker Shock: Maine Homeowners Burdened by Property Tax Hikes Following Recent Revaluations…]

“This is really difficult for everyone, we don’t take any pleasure in this, and the city doesn’t get any more money,” he said. “And that’s something I think is hard for people to hear, is that the city is not getting a penny more from taxes, it’s really truly just a shift of who’s paying them, which is, I think, the hardest thing for people to hear and understand.”

The mayor also discussed the possibility of “buying down the tax rate” from city funds, although he noted that this idea had initially faced opposition from the city manager. Pride suggested he would revisit the conversation with city staff, given the widespread financial strain residents are experiencing.

“Maybe the guidance from the city manager will have changed due to the hurt that so many people are feeling right now,” Pride said.

An order to allocate an additional $100,000 to the city’s Senior Tax Relief program was passed unanimously by the South Portland City Council at their Sept. 3 meeting.

https://www.themainewire.com/2024/09/maine-mayor-on-property-tax-hikes-seniors-may-want-to-consider-a-reverse-mortgage/

>>21650771

>Communist Maine Mayor to Senior Citizen constituents: "Just Get a Reverse Mortgage to pay your skyrocketing property taxes."

>>21650776

https://x.com/TheMaineWire/status/1838195628834267491

The Maine Wire

@TheMaineWire

⚡South Portland Mayor Misha Pride tells seniors to take out a reverse mortgage to afford the city's sharp increase in property taxes.

8:36 AM · Sep 23, 2024

·

65.8K

Views

This faggot claims to be a "passionate advocate for seniors"

Fuckin scumbag

>>21650771

>⚡South Portland Mayor Misha Pride tells seniors to take out a reverse mortgage to afford the city's sharp increase in property taxes.

>>21650776

>>21650794

https://www.cnn.com/cnn-underscored/money/reverse-mortgage-pros-and-cons

5 cons of a reverse mortgage

1. You’ll have high upfront costs

Like a traditional mortgage, you’ll have out-of-pocket expenses when borrowing a reverse mortgage. In fact, you can expect to pay more in closing costs than you would with a typical home loan.

When you sign a reverse mortgage, you must pay fees for the following:

Origination (which can cost up to $6,000)

Appraisal

Title search

Survey

Inspection

Recording

Credit check

An initial mortgage insurance premium (MIP) Federal Housing Administration-approved reverse mortgages equal to 2% of your loan amount — and an annual MIP equal to 0.5% of the loan balance

The exact amount you’ll owe depends on your lender and state of residence, but since conventional mortgage closing costs range from 2% to 6% of the home’s value, you can expect your reverse mortgage to cost more than that.

Rolling some of these fees into your loan may be possible with a no-closing-cost reverse mortgage (again, depending on your lender), but that means you’ll receive less money and pay interest on the fees.

2. You may lose other retirement benefits

If you’re enrolled in need-based government programs like Medicaid or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), a reverse mortgage could impact your eligibility. To qualify for SSI, for example, your assets (or “resources,” according to the program) must be under $2,000 for individuals and $3,000 for couples. Although a reverse mortgage won’t count as income, it’s an asset you own.

Before committing to a reverse mortgage, speak to a lawyer or financial planner to understand the implications of your other benefits. For FHA-lent reverse mortgages, your HUD counselor can explain the pitfalls.

3. You’ll still have home expenses

A reverse mortgage won’t guarantee that you can afford to continue living in your home. You’ll still need to keep up with non-mortgage housing expenses, like property taxes, homeowners insurance, HOA dues and home maintenance — and monthly MIPs on FHA reverse mortgages, which equates to 0.5% of your loan balance.

Furthermore, if you have a history of falling behind on your taxes or insurance premiums, it could impact your ability to get a reverse mortgage.

4. You risk default or foreclosure

Failing to adhere to the terms of a reverse mortgage could leave you in default on your loan. And from there, you risk foreclosure on your property.

If you don’t pay your property taxes or insurance premiums on schedule, you’ll violate your reverse mortgage’s terms. You must also live in the home full-time for the majority of the year — if you want to downsize or need to move into assisted living, you must repay the loan, which might require selling the home.

5. Your heirs may have to sell the home

A reverse mortgage might not be the right choice if you want to keep your home in the family, either as an inheritance for your heirs or for its sentimental value. The loan balance comes due when you die (or no longer live in the home full-time). Unless your heirs can repay the debt with their own funds or want to refinance the debt into their name, they may need to sell your home to satisfy the loan.

6. The industry is rife with scams

=

While a reverse mortgage from a reputable lender is a legitimate financial product that may help you remain in your home after retirement, there are many bad actors looking to take advantage of senior homeowners. To avoid falling victim to a scam, don’t respond to unsolicited offers or feel pressured to act quickly. Before giving out your personal information, check a company’s listing with the Better Business Bureau — if the business isn’t listed or has worrisome reviews, walk away.

>>21650826

>5 cons of a reverse mortgage

Experience

Drummond & Drummond, LLP

Drummond & Drummond, LLP

8 years 3 months

Partner

Jan 2023 - Present 1 year 9 months

Portland Maine

Attorney

Jul 2016 - Jan 2023 6 years 7 months

Portland Maine

I work with clients on estate planning involving wills and revocable living trusts, as well as medicaid asset protection planning. I provide clients with financial and medical power of attorney documents. I work with families to help clients apply for medicaid and advise clients about services available to seniors in the area.

I assist clients with the probate process, including probate litigation.

City of South Portland

City of South Portland

3 years 10 months

Mayor

Dec 2023 - Present 10 months

South Portland, Maine

Serving as Mayor for my second time.

City Council Member

Dec 2018 - Present 5 years 10 months

South Portland, Maine, United States

Mayor

Dec 2020 - Nov 2021 1 year

South Portland, Maine, United States

Proud to have been selected by my fellow City Councilors to serve as Mayor of the fourth largest city in Maine.

Attorney and Counselor at Law

Morse & Pride, LLC

Mar 2015 - Jun 2016 1 year 4 months

1321 Washington Ave, Suite 108, Portland, ME 04103

Elder Law Practice

Attorney and Counselor At Law

The Law Office of Misha Charles Pride, Esq., P.C.

Feb 2013 - Feb 2015 2 years 1 month

Portland, Maine Area

Elder Law Practice.

Catamaran

Catamaran

3 years 8 months

Sr. Reimbursment Specialist

May 2012 - Feb 2013 10 months

I worked at Ascend Specialty Pharmacy doing benefits investigations and making sure that insurance companies paid for our patients' medications.

I reviewed network contracts and ensure we adhere to them. I also do reporting to different distributors and networks as required in our contracts.

Reimbursement Specialist

Jul 2009 - May 2012 2 years 11 months

South Portland, ME

I worked at Ascend Specialty Pharmacy doing benefits investigations and making sure that insurance companies paid for our patients' medications.

I reviewed network contracts and ensured we adhered to them. I also did reporting to different distributors and networks as required in our contracts.

I was part of a team of trainers, training employees to use our advanced pharmacy dispensing computer system, Scriptmed.

ADA, Intern

Cumberland County District Attorney's Office

May 2007 - May 2008 1 year 1 month

I reviewed police reports and other evidence to make charging decisions and create complaints. Appeared in front of judges on behalf of the State of Maine for arraignments and trials.

>>21650832

Education

University of Maine School of Law Graphic

University of Maine School of Law

J.D.

2005 - 2008

University of New Hampshire Graphic

University of New Hampshire

B.A. Psychology, Political Science

2001 - 2005

Concord High School

-

Concord High School

-

Volunteer Experience

Greater Portland Family Promise Graphic

Board Member

Greater Portland Family Promise

May 2017 - Present 7 years 5 months

Poverty Alleviation

Greater Portland Family Promise Graphic

Treasurer

Greater Portland Family Promise

Jun 2018 - Jun 2020 2 years 1 month

Poverty Alleviation

Member of the Vestry

Cathedral Church of St. Luke, Portland, ME

Feb 2015 - Jan 2021 6 years

As an elected member of the church's Vestry, I work with the other members to ensure the church continues to accomplish its mission.

Southern Maine Agency On Aging Graphic

Advisory Council Member

Southern Maine Agency On Aging

Oct 2016 - Aug 2020 3 years 11 months

Volunteer

St. Elizabeth's Essential's Pantry

Feb 2013 - Jun 2016 3 years 5 months

Poverty Alleviation

At St. Elizabeth's we hand out toiletries, clothing, small household goods, books, and other non-food necessities to people in need. Currently, I spend 3 hours every Tuesday morning working to set up the pantry, greet clients when they first arrive at the pantry, managing entry into the pantry, and then help with clean-up afterwards. I really enjoy working greeting our clients each Tuesday morning, and trying to make them smile.

Volunteer Ombudsman

Maine Long-term Care Ombudsman Program

Aug 2013 - Dec 2014 1 year 5 months

I make visits to a long-term care facility to represent the rights and interests of the residents there.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/misha-pride-esq-443ba6b

Partner at Drummond & Drummond, LLP

Portland, Maine, United States Contact Info

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Drummond & Drummond, LLP

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About

I am a passionate advocate for seniors and committed to providing excellent guidance and education for my clients and potential clients. I work with clients on estate planning and asset preservation planning.

>>21650832

> Attorney

> Jul 2016 - Jan 2023 6 years 7 months

> Portland Maine

>I work with clients on estate planning involving wills and revocable living trusts, as well as medicaid asset protection planning. I provide clients with financial and medical power of attorney documents.I work with families to help clients apply for medicaid and advise clients about services available to seniors in the area.

==Almost like he's trying to generate some business for his law firm

>>21650771

>>21650776

>>21650794

>>21650803

>>21650826

>>21650832

>>21650833

>>21650857

It was just a mistake. Now go get a reverse morgage. If you need any help with that call me

“The error is significant”: South Portland Faces $4 Million Budget Shortfall After Mistakenly Failing to Increase Property Taxes Enough

Edward TomicBy Edward TomicJanuary 17, 2024Updated:January 17, 202416 Comments3 Mins Read2K Views

The City of South Portland is working to close a $4 million shortfall in their current fiscal year budget they identified earlier this month — a gap the city attributes to mistakenly not taxing residents enough to support the City Council-approved budget.

According to the city, South Portland’s current mill rate is $14.14, meaning property owners must pay $14.14 out of every $1,000 of their property’s assessed value. But it should have been raised to $14.69 this past summer following the approval of the current fiscal year’s budget by the City Council.

That increased tax rate would have resulted in the average South Portland property owner paying an additional $163 in taxes, which the city says would have fully funded this fiscal year’s budget — if it had not been “mistakenly not billed.”

“This error is significant, and we want to be transparent with the public and own up to this mistake,” said South Portland City Manager Scott Morelli in a Wednesday press release. “Fortunately, the City has capable problem-solvers in our Finance and other departments who have responded quickly to help resolve the issue and prevent it from repeating.”

Opting not to send higher tax bills to make up the shortfall, the city’s Finance team reviewed its options for non-tax revenues anticipated this year, looking to identify revenues streams which may “come in higher than anticipated,” including grants and reserve funds.

City department heads were also asked to review their budgets in order to identify and defer non-critical spending.

“While staff is confident that this process will be successful, it is possible that the City may need to utilize some amount of fund balance to finish out the year,” the city’s press release reads.

According the city, the reason why property taxes were not raised in accordance with the city’s budgetary needs was due to the city double counting certain reimbursements from the state, leading the city to overestimate revenues by $4 million and therefore to assume that much less in property taxes needed to be collected.

“This is of course a very unfortunate thing to have happened,” said South Portland Finance Director Ellen Sanborn. “We have put additional checks and balances in place so that something like this is very unlikely to happen in the future.”

The tax revenue that was mistakenly not collected for this year’s budget will be a topic of conversation for next fiscal year’s budget, covering July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025.

The South Portland City manager and School Department will present their proposed budgets at the April 2, 2024 City Council meeting.

“South Portland is proud of its strong fiscal standing and remains one of only two communities in Maine to receive the highest bond ratings from both Moody’s and S&P, two leading global credit rating firms,” the city stated Wednesday.

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>>21650771

>>21650779

>>21650794

>>21650803

>>21650874

>>21650880

>We spent way too much, how can we spin this?

South Portland raised the taxes, didn't tell anyone how much it was going to go up. Passed a massive school budget. Then unleashed the tax increases on people after the school budget was passed. Now there's probably going to be school funding in a bond during the election..

$69.4 million school budget goes to South Portland voters

Taxes will rise about 3.8% over this year's rate to cover $52.9 million of the budget.

Posted May 15

Updated May 16

Drew Johnson

Sentry/Leader

2 min read

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South Portland residents will vote June 11 on a $69.4 million school budget, up nearly 5% from this year’s.

Roughly $52.9 million will be funded through taxes, a 3.8% increase over this year.

The City Council agreed last week to send the $69,354,601 budget out for the validation vote. The final proposal is roughly $76,000 less than what the school department proposed to the council in April, despite adding $100,000 for a mental health and student intervention leadership position and $25,000 toward security, among other adjustments.

Matheney

The Sentry could not connect with Superintendent Tim Matheney before its Wednesday deadline.

In his presentation to the council on April 2, Matheney said roughly 80% of the budget goes toward personnel costs, like wages, salaries and benefits.

New positions include three teaching positions for social and emotional learning, two teachers at Skillin Elementary, an added social worker and a multilingual specialist. Matheney described multilingual specialists, of which the district already has two, as “deeply valued” in the school community, which has seen an 88% increase in multilingual learners since 2018. The overall number of students in the district has increased by only 36 during that time.

“We are educating students in a school district that looks a lot more like the world than most of the state of Maine,” he said at the April 2 council meeting. “We’re excited about this diversity, but it does mean we need to transform ourselves and we are very actively in that process, and I would argue we’re doing very well at it.”

The school department is also holding back on capital improvement projects this year, sticking to minor work such as painting and gym floor maintenance. It is also using over $1 million of its fund balance to offset the cost to taxpayers.

The city’s property tax rate will be set once the City Council finalizes the municipal portion of the budget, which is expected by June 25.

>>21650924

>South Portland raised the taxes, didn't tell anyone how much it was going to go up. Passed a massive school budget. Then unleashed the tax increases on people after the school budget was passed. Now there's probably going to be school funding in a bond during the election..

https://www.pressherald.com/2024/05/15/69-4-million-school-budget-goes-to-south-portland-voters/

Tax bills normally go out quarterly. Not this year

Tax Bill FAQ (July 2024)

New! Watch the video recording of the Tax Assessor's August 13, 2024 presentation to City Council on tax equalization and valuation adjustments. You can also view the Assessor's slide presentation.

When will tax bills be mailed?

The City expects to send tax bills by the end of August 2024.

Can I see my tax bill?

Fiscal Year 2025 tax bills were posted online the week of August 12, 2024. You can view and pay your bill on our Citizen Self Service portal (accessible via the "Online Services" button on the homepage).

When is my payment due?

The first payment will be due November 15, 2024. Tax payments are no longer due on August 22, 2024 as previously announced.

What changes will I see on my tax bill this year?

The City will send one annual tax bill mailing to taxpayers instead of bills each quarter.

Payments will be due twice a year instead of four times a year.

This fiscal year's payments are due on November 15, 2024 and May 15, 2025.

Homeowners whose taxes are not escrowed as part of their mortgage are responsible for paying the amount due with the payment stubs provided.

You can also elect to pay your bill in its entirety upon receiving your bill.

In addition, many will see a tax increase over last year (read more below).

Each property owner will see changes in their tax amount due based on the new assessed value of their property and the new mill rate.

How can I pay my bill?

Once posted, you can pay your bill online or in person at City Hall at the Treasury office. You can also drop your payment off in the drop box at the rear entrance of City Hall or send your check via mail. You can elect to pay your bill using the payment stub provided with your bill, pay your bill in full, or make payments as frequently as you desire.

Why is the City only sending one bill per year instead of bills every quarter?

A single annual tax bill mailing is something many surrounding communities have adopted because it is more sustainable and saves resources. The City’s Finance department is already investing these savings to better serve you. For example, they have hired an additional cashier in the Treasury office to help reduce wait times, funded in part by the money saved sending fewer tax mailings.

Can I sign up for email reminders when tax bill due dates approach?

Yes. Sign up at: southportland.gov/signup

Won't people forget to pay if there's only one annual bill and two payment due dates?

We don't expect for this to be the case. The Finance Director surveyed other surrounding communities. She found that several send one or two tax bills and have one or two payments due each year. She found that "none of the communities stated having higher delinquent payments or receiving feedback that older residents forget to pay if they do not receive an invoice." Read the memo.

What is the tax rate I will pay this year?

The mill rate or “tax rate” is the dollar amount per $1000 of value that you pay in property taxes. Every South Portland property owner will pay the same mill rate, posted on your bill. The mill rate for this fiscal year is $13.20 (6.6% lower than year’s). This means that taxpayers will pay less per $1000 of property value than they did last year. However, the Assessing office has made adjustments to assessed property valuations to bring them more in line with market value, which is required by the State of Maine Constitution. This means that many will see a higher tax bill than last year, despite the lower mill rate.

Will my tax bill be higher this year than last year if my assessed property value increased?

Most likely, yes. Assessed values—which are based on market values per the State Constitution—have increased, especially for single-family properties. Many will see an increase on their tax bill this year. Property owners will see an increase if their assessed property value increased a greater percentage than the decrease in the mill rate.

Why is my assessed property value increasing?

The Maine State Constitution dictates that assessed property value be based on market value. In South Portland, like many areas across the State, residential property values have been increasing more rapidly than most other property types. This triggered the need for the Assessing office to adjust values in accordance with State rules. We would like to emphasize that valuation is based on market conditions—something the City does not control.

>>21650941

>Tax bills normally go out quarterly. Not this year

Is South Portland the only municipality where assessed valuations are increasing?

No. In consulting with other Assessors across the State, assessed valuations in many municipalities—particularly for single-family properties—are rising significantly this year, from 12% on the low end to up to 60% on the high end.

Why does the Assessing office adjust property values?

The State requires municipalities to maintain fair and equitable valuations between all property types. This includes maintaining single-family assessed valuations within 10% of market value for the City to remain eligible for 100% of reimbursements and property owner exemptions. The improved data that the City reports to the State also helps reduce the mill rate.

Why is the Assessing office adjusting property values now?

Historically, the South Portland Assessing office has been able to make more incremental valuation changes. However, the gap between assessed values and market values in South Portland and many Maine communities has grown in recent years due to dramatic shifts in the real estate market. This is particularly true for single-family properties. This year, in order for the City to remain eligible for full reimbursement from the State and maintain 100% of Homestead (and other) exemptions that benefit taxpayers who qualify, adjustments to residential, commercial, and personal property valuations were necessary. This process, called equalization, contributes to a lower tax rate for all taxpayers.

Did commercial/industrial property values increase, or only residential?

Assessed values increased for both residential and commercial/industrial properties. However, recent sales data shows residential property values in South Portland have increased at a greater rate than commercial/industrial property values. Therefore, residential properties needed to be adjusted the most to meet the State Constitution requirement of a fair and equitable assessment.

Does the City collect more money when property valuations go up?

No, the City does not collect extra tax dollars through the equalization process. It only ensures that the money the City collects in property taxes to support the budget that the City Council approved is distributed fairly and equitably among property owners according to property value, per the State Constitution. For every dollar a residential or commercial property owner pays more in taxes, someone else pays a dollar less, so the City does not collect additional tax revenue. The City of Bangor Assessing Department features a short video on their web page that helps explain how assessing and taxation work.

Is there action City Council can take to limit the impact of valuation increases?

As explained in this FAQ, the Tax Assessor follows the State Constitution when adjusting property values to better align with market values. City Council and staff will be conferring with other municipalities and State legislators to explore what changes might be possible at the state level in the future to help limit the impact of major shifts in the real estate market on taxpayers. South Portland City Council will also vote on September 3, 2024 to add $100,000 in funding to our senior citizen property tax relief program.

How much did the City’s budget increase this year and how does this affect my tax bill?

The total approved FY25 budget, which includes both the School and the Municipal budgets, increased by 4.9%. Wages and benefits were the major drivers of the increase to the City portion of the budget. This increase will be reflected on your tax amount due.

What is the breakdown of where my property taxes will go this year?

Of the funds that taxpayers will pay to the City in FY25, 61% will go to the School Department, 35% will support Municipal operations, and 4% will go to Cumberland County.

I heard the City had a budget shortfall last year. Am I paying more taxes this year because the City overspent on its budget?

>>21650941

>>21650948

riiggggght

Last year, after City Council passed the budget, the City made an error on a state form that resulted in the City sending tax bills that were lower than they should have been. This was not a budget issue, but a billing error. Instead of burdening taxpayers with an extra bill when the City became aware of the issue, the City opted instead to bridge the gap by cutting costs and to roll the unbilled portion into this year’s taxes. This is separate from the increase many are seeing on their tax bill due to an increase in assessed property value.

Here is some more detailed information that may be helpful. The budget approved by the City Council last year included a 5.2% tax increase that was known to staff, the Council, and the public. Due to the improper filling out of a State financial form after the budget was adopted, City staff believed it had more non-tax revenue than projected, so we thought we could send out tax bills that only increased taxes 1.2% instead of the approved 5.2%. While it is not uncommon for additional revenues to be found after the budget is approved to help lower the anticipated tax rate, this time it was an error, and resulted in the City collecting less money than needed to fund the budget. To be clear, the City did not forget to budget for certain expenses nor did we calculate too low a tax rate when the budget was presented to and approved by the Council. This was an after-the-fact billing error, and this year’s tax rate is sufficient to raise the funds needed. We apologize for the mistake, and now have safeguards in place to prevent such errors.

Is the South Portland tax rate high compared to other communities?

No. This past fiscal year, South Portland’s effective tax rate was lower than all abutting communities and second lowest when compared to the 10 largest communities in Maine. This year, we expect that the City will continue to have a lower tax rate than many comparable Maine communities.

Are there any property tax relief programs available?

The State and City offer several property tax relief and tax exemption programs. More information on State tax relief programs can be found at maine.gov/revenue/taxes/tax-relief-credits-programs, or by calling Maine Revenue Services at 207-624-5600. State programs include:

State Property Tax Fairness Credit: Form 1040ME and Schedule PTFC/STFC, filed with your Income Tax Return for the tax year the property tax or rent was paid, has increased to $2,000 as a tax return filing. Call 207-624-9784 for more information.

State Tax Deferral Program: Asset limits were raised and income limits doubled to $80,000 for Maine Seniors having difficulty paying taxes. Applications are due in the Assessing office from January 1 to April 1.

State Exemptions: Homestead (reduces taxable valuation by up to $25,000 as adjusted per State guidelines), Veterans, Veterans Widow/Widower, Disabled/Paraplegic Veterans, Blind, and Renewable Energy.

The City offers a senior citizen property tax relief program. If you qualified and received a Senior Property Tax rebate from the City last year, an application for this year will be mailed to you at the end of January. You can also find the application online or in the Finance office at City Hall. Applications are due May 1. For more information, visit southportland.gov/182/Property-Tax-Assistance-Program, contact the Finance Department at finance@southportland.org, or call 207-767-7612.

Finally, for those who believe they are financially unable to pay their property taxes, the City Council can consider financial hardship tax abatements. For more information, contact Social Services at 207-767-7617.

How do I apply for the Senior Tax Stabilization Credit this year?

You cannot. This program was put in place by State legislation and has been repealed. Some seniors will see an increase this year due to the rollback. The State has other property tax assistance programs in place that have been expanded to increase the number of taxpayers who may qualify. Please visit https://www.maine.gov/revenue/taxes/tax-relief-credits-programs/property-tax-relief-programs or call Maine Revenue Services at 207-624-5600 for more information about these.

>>21650941

>>21650948

>>21650954

My property taxes are paid through my escrow account with my mortgage lender. Do I need to notify my lender that the City has changed to one annual bill?

No. The City sends a file to the escrow companies each quarter. Some pay quarterly and some pay the annual total. There is no change in this process, so you do not need to take any action.

How are interest and fees on late payments determined?

Interest and fees on past due taxes are dictated by State law. The City Council, per State statute, sets the tax payment, due dates and rate of interest to be applied to delinquent accounts as part of the Orders passed annually in the budget process. The City does not rely on late fees/interest in order to balance its budget and offers many ways for bills to be paid prior to the due date to avoid such charges.

Why does the City charge a fee to pay with a credit/debit card?

The City’s credit/debit card processor charges a fee for transactions conducted with a card. Rather than absorb this fee and have that cost paid by all taxpayers as a general budget expense, the City passes along that fee to the individual card users. This way, people who pay their taxes by cash or check are not subsidizing the cost of those who use cards. Most, if not all, Maine municipalities pass this fee along to the card users as South Portland does.

Whom do I contact if I have questions about my tax bill?

Contact the Finance Department, Treasury & Collections Division at 767-7612 or finance@southportland.org.

I think my assessed property value is too high. What should I do?

The goal of the Assessing office is to adjust property values closer to market value. If it appears your new assessment exceeds market value, please be sure to email Tracy London, Assistant to the Assessor, at tlondon@southportland.org or call the Assessing office at 207-767-7604 for assistance. Staff will review your property file and determine if any adjustments are appropriate.

Whom do I contact if I have run into financial hardship?

If you have run into a hardship and your taxes are in lien, we encourage you to contact our General Assistance office at 207-767-7617 or email ga@southportland.org for information about applying for an abatement.

How do I learn more?

Watch the Assessor's August 13, 2024 presentation to City Council. You are also welcome to contact the Assessing office if you have questions. Email Tracy London, Assistant to the Assessor at tlondon@southportland.org or call 207-767-7604

https://www.southportland.gov/714/Tax-Bill-FAQ-July-2024

So the school can install astroturf

>>21650924

>South Portland raised the taxes, didn't tell anyone how much it was going to go up. Passed a massive school budget. Then unleashed the tax increases on people after the school budget was passed.Now there's probably going to be school funding in a bond during the election..

$16.3 million in school bonds could be on South Portland’s November ballot

The City Council will hold an Aug. 6 public hearing and final vote on whether to send the three bond orders to a November referendum.

Posted July 17

Updated July 19

Drew Johnson

Sentry/Leader

2 min read

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The South Portland City Council on Tuesday gave preliminary approval to three separate school bonds, totaling $16.3 million. If sent to the November ballot and approved by voters, they would provide safety upgrades at the city’s elementary schools, conduct maintenance at some schools, and revamp athletic facilities at the high school.

The $12.3 million bond for athletic facilities calls for a new concessions building, stadium field, practice field, track, stadium lights and a permanent restroom. The proposal calls for the use of synthetic turf. Currently, portable toilets are used at the stadium while the outdoor track is in rough shape and there are bare patches on the stadium field, posing a safety concerns for athletes, Superintendent Tim Matheney said at Monday’s council meeting.

“That field is not just used for football,” Matheney said. “That’s a soccer stadium, that’s a lacrosse stadium and it hosts many events throughout the school year.”

Matheney told the council that the district has been working on an athletic facilities plan since early 2023.

A $3 million bond would create secure vestibules at all five of South Portland’s elementary schools among other security measures. Upgrading the entrances to the elementary schools has been discussed by school officials and the school board since April 2023, Matheney said.

The vestibules would cost $2.7 million while $52,000 would go toward external lighting and $227,000 would go toward security cameras.

“We need far more sophisticated – and far more – security cameras in our elementary schools than we do now which, quite frankly, are significantly behind what you would find in elementary schools elsewhere in the United States,” Matheney told the council.

He noted the district applied for grant funding for the vestibules but was rejected in January.

Meanwhile, a $1 million bond would be for maintenance – nearly $936,000 of which would go toward roof work at Kaler, Skillin and Small elementary schools.

“It’s not the full roof at each school, but substantial portions of them,” Matheney said.

Roughly $33,000 of that bond order would go toward windows at Kaler to stop moisture seeping into the school and roughly $32,000 toward the high school’s auditorium pit area and the entrance to Beal Gymnasium.

“We believe the materials that were used for the (gym) entrance are really not exterior materials and that was an error when that part of the building was constructed,” Matheney said.

The school board approved the three bond orders on July 8. The council unanimously gave preliminary approval to them on Monday and will hold a public hearing and final vote on Aug. 6 to decide whether to send the bonds to a November referendum.

This story was edited July 19 to add that synthetic turf would be used for the new fields.

https://www.pressherald.com/2024/07/17/16-3-million-in-school-bonds-could-be-on-south-portlands-november-ballot/

>>21650820

>He is an Elder Law Attorney!

>>21650771

>>21650924

>>21650941

>>21650956

You, go get a reverse mortgage to pay your taxes". meanwhile…we get a new city hall

Portland Press Herald, Maine

South Portland plans $74 million renovation of Mahoney Middle. Residents ask if it's needed.

Gillian Graham, Portland Press Herald, Maine

Updated September 6, 2024·5 min read

Sep. 5—The South Portland City Council voted this week to move ahead with transforming the former Mahoney Middle School into a city hall campus that will include a new public library and police station, rather than converting it into affordable housing.

But residents upset about higher tax bills following a recent revaluation are pushing back on the proposal and question why the city is looking at a $74 million project at a time when some taxpayers are worried about losing their homes.

"The timing is unfortunate," resident Lauren Shapiro told the council on Tuesday. "It would be irresponsible, and frankly tactless, to propose this bond to voters."

The City Council unanimously endorsed plans to renovate the former school, but ultimately it will be up to voters to approve the funding to make that possible. A bond referendum will not go to voters until at least November 2025.

"Is it ever the right time? We've delayed this for so long," Councilor Rachael Coleman said.

City officials say the current City Hall, fire and police stations and the library all have inadequate space and some of the buildings need major updates.

A city facilities committee spent the last three years looking at the current and future needs of multiple municipal buildings — including the current City Hall on Cottage Road, the main library and the central fire and police stations, which are not far from Mahoney — and analyzing options for new or renovated facilities.

Mahoney became part of that discussion after students relocated to the new middle school on Wescott Street last year and the school department turned the 10-acre property over to the city, a move that was required by state law because it was no longer being used for education.

The new plan calls for relocating departments currently housed in City Hall and the former Hamlin Elementary School property into the Mahoney building.

The city also would build an addition to relocate the library and construct a new 26,000-square-foot police station on the adjacent field. The central fire station on Broadway would be renovated after the existing police station is demolished.

The theater and gymnasium would be reserved for community use. And there would be enough open space left on the Mahoney property to keep one soccer field.

FACILITIES NEED UPGRADES

A preliminary estimate puts the cost of the project at $74 million, but that number could change before taxpayers are asked to approve a bond to pay for it. The city allocated $4.5 million for the design phase, which will generate a more accurate estimate for the total cost.

City leaders say they recognize the project is a big ask, but is unavoidable because putting off needed work only makes it more expensive.

"Eventually, if nothing is done with these buildings, we're going to have serious problems," City Manager Scott Morelli said. "I don't know what the answer is if voters don't eventually approve a bond."

>>21651024

>South Portland plans $74 million renovation of Mahoney Middle. Residents ask if it's needed.

Fire Chief Phil Selberg said the condition of the fire station is embarrassing — the floors are cracked, mold is growing in the building, there is only one working bathroom on the second floor and some windows are so drafty that firefighters wake up in the winter covered with snow.

"It was state of the art in 1955 and still looks like it was built in 1955 because we haven't been able to do much to it," he said.

The current main library branch is undersized and doesn't fit the needs of a modern library, said Director Kevin Davis. The library, designed by noted Maine architect John Leasure, was a well-regarded early example of modern architecture when it opened in 1966.

"It was modern, it was innovative, it was cool," Davis said.

But there are now 10 more employees than when it opened, the library offers far more services than just book lending, and the stacks are 8 feet high instead of 4 feet, Davis said. There is also limited parking, only one office and no dedicated space that people can use for quiet study or meetings.

Davis said in an interview after the City Council vote that he feels a sense of relief that councilors support the Mahoney plan, even if it would be years until a new building was ready.

"At least we know there is a desire from the city to move forward in this direction toward a new facility for our services," he said.

'A LUXURY WE CANNOT AFFORD'

The council had also considered a proposal from the South Portland Housing Authority to use the property for affordable housing.

During recent public meetings, dozens of residents urged the city to move forward with that plan and to find ways to preserve as much green space as possible.

Morelli, the city manager, said the council could decide to use the current City Hall, Hamlin building and library for affordable housing in the future and that they could be redeveloped into more units than would fit in Mahoney. The housing authority, Avesta, Developers Collaborative and other firms have indicated they would be willing to bid on those sites if the the city chooses to turn them into affordable housing, he said.

Bob McKeagney, speaking on behalf of the Historic Preservation Committee, urged councilors to preserve the historical integrity of Mahoney, which the committee nominated for inclusion on the city's inventory of archaeological and historic resources.

The committee also is advocating for the city to preserve the library building, which is the only publicly accessible example of international style architecture in South Portland. The international style is characterized by modular forms, flat surfaces without ornamentation, and open and airy interiors.

Residents who spoke before the vote said that even if the renovations and upgrades are needed, residents can't shoulder a tax increase to pay for the project.

"This makes my blood boil. We started tonight talking about unprecedented tax increases," said resident Donna Kane. She said the plan for the campus is lovely, "but is a luxury we cannot afford."

Diane Romano said the city needs to "distinguish between needs and wants" and that it was tone deaf to be talking about the renovation plan "when we're all up here pleading because people are being taxed out of their homes."

"What's wrong with this building that you can't suck it up for a few more years?" she said. "Something's got to give and something's got to give quick."

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>>21651024

>>21651026

gee, I wonder what could've caused budget issues

Asylum seekers to move in to new South Portland apartments

Avesta Housing has received an occupancy permit for West End II and will begin moving asylum seekers in within a few weeks.

Posted February 19, 2023

Updated February 21, 2023

Kelley Bouchard

Staff Writer

4 min read

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The West End Apartments building by Avesta Housing under construction last week at 600 Westbrook St. in South Portland. Brianna Soukup/Staff Photographer

SOUTH PORTLAND — Asylum seekers staying in local hotels could begin moving into 52 new apartments on Westbrook Street in a few weeks.

Avesta Housing, Greater Portland’s largest nonprofit affordable housing provider, has received an occupancy permit for the second phase of its West End Apartment complex and plans to begin leasing the units to asylum seekers.

Initially slated to open last fall, West End II has been delayed several months because of building supply chain disruptions and labor shortages, said Avesta spokesman Rod Harmon.

Related

Avesta Housing plans apartments for asylum seekers in South Portland, Portland

The project at 600 Westbrook St. got its occupancy permit last week, but the contractor still has to work through a punch list of final tasks, such as touching up paint and checking utility systems, Harmon said. Tenants have been selected and notified and will start moving in early next month.

While the apartments aren’t permanently reserved for asylum seekers, Harmon said, Avesta gave preference to migrants who have been housed in local hotels because Portland’s emergency shelters are full and affordable apartments are scarce in southern Maine.

“We received over 1,000 applications for 52 apartments,” Harmon said.

Avesta also gives preference to people who are homeless, veterans, disabled or over age 60, he said.

“In this case, the preference was asylum seekers experiencing homelessness,” he said.

Related

Communities recognizing homelessness isn’t just a Portland problem

Harmon said 20% of Avesta’s 3,300 apartments in southern Maine and New Hampshire are leased to recent immigrants, including asylum seekers.

Avesta tried to secure additional housing for asylum seekers by purchasing Winchester Woods, a 48-unit apartment complex under construction in Portland’s East Deering neighborhood, but that deal fell through. Avesta has no active plans to develop additional housing for asylum seekers, Harmon said.

The new housing comes as high numbers of new Mainers continue to come into Portland.

Portland is providing emergency shelter to more than 950 people nightly, including homeless individuals and asylum seekers. A recent influx of families have slept sitting in chairs in the city’s crowded family shelter. About 800 homeless individuals and asylum seekers are being sheltered in South Portland hotels.

The South Portland City Council has extended the deadline to April 30 for when the hotels must resume normal operations allowed under their municipal licenses. The council also has enacted an eviction moratorium and rent cap, and it’s working on a rent control proposal and zoning changes that would allow nonprofits to open homeless shelters in the city.

Related

Avesta Housing won’t move forward with Winchester Woods project

Given the urgency of housing and homeless challenges, Mayor Kate Lewis welcomed the pending completion of West End II.

“This type of housing can’t come soon enough and we need more of it,” Lewis said.

>>21651082

>gee, I wonder what could've caused budget issues

Lewis said she hoped that West End II will house many of the families who have been living in South Portland hotels, so their children will be able to maintain some stability in continuing to attend city schools.

Related

South Portland pushes ahead with rent control proposal

Harmon said some West End II tenants probably will come from South Portland hotels, but he couldn’t say how many.

When Avesta officials were planning the West End project, they said it would cost an estimated $28 million overall and add a total of 90 subsidized and 26 market-rate apartments to the rental market in South Portland.

It was financed with a combination of low-income federal housing tax credits from MaineHousing, federal HOME funds awarded by Cumberland County, tax-increment financing from the city, and grants and subsidized permanent loans.

West End I, a 64-unit, mixed-income project at 586 Westbrook St. that cost $13 million, opened in 2021.

The rents at West End II will be funded with a portion of $22 million that the Legislature earmarked in last year’s state budget for emergency housing needs across Maine, said Scott Thistle, MaineHousing spokesman.

A $1.54 million escrow account has been set up to cover rental fees for two years while tenants navigate the asylum process, get work permits, find jobs and become part of the community, he said. Additional supports have been funded to help residents through the Immigrant Legal Advocacy Project and Hope Acts, a nonprofit that assists asylum seekers.

Avesta didn’t respond to questions about the final cost of West End II, how much funding it received last year or how much tenants will pay for rent.

https://www.pressherald.com/2023/02/19/asylum-seekers-to-move-in-to-new-south-portland-apartments/