Tax talk takes over Paradise accessibility session

By Chad Feehan/December 20, 2023

What was supposed to be a meeting last week about accessibility issues in Paradise and how the Town is addressing them, turned into a session about seniors struggling with taxes.

The Town teed up the session with a presentation highlighting its accomplishments and goals regarding accessibility and inclusivity.

After the floor was opened to public input, resident Al Antle voiced concerns about the financial woes of seniors, specifically the struggle of paying taxes in an increasingly difficult economy.

Councillor Glen Carew empathized with the situation and highlighted that the Town will work with seniors on payment plans.

“Going into next year’s budget we’ll be going into a system that’s more needs-based than just applying a blanket amount,” Carew said. “There probably are seniors and retirees who are comfortable. But we know there are those who are not.”

Carew added that Council recognizes and talks about the issue of affordability and said discussions such as this one are essential to their understanding of the needs of the community.

Antle reiterated the difficulty that seniors have in paying large tax bills.

Councillor Larry Vaters clarified the payment plan, highlighting how seniors can pay their taxes through the bank over 10 months. He also noted the impact that inflation has had on the Town’s operations.

“As things go up in price, they go up in prices for the municipality,” he said.

Vaters encouraged residents to reach out to Town staff, who will work with their situations.

The subject of handicap parking and inclusive hiring were among the other issues discussed at the meeting.