Politics
Northcote Property Tax Referendum to Set New Annual Payments for Homeowners
The measure would raise the local property tax rate and increase yearly bills for Northcote property owners by an average of several hundred dollars.
How we reported this
The ballot measure on revising Northcote's property tax assessment formula will set new annual payments for property owners across the city beginning with the 2027 tax year.
Northcote City Council placed the question on the November ballot after the 2026 fiscal report showed a shortfall in revenue needed to maintain current service levels. The legislation states that the rate applied to assessed property values would rise from 1.2 percent to 1.35 percent if approved by voters.
Effects on Household Spending
Homeowners would pay the additional amount directly to the city treasurer each year. For a property assessed at the median value recorded in the 2025 assessment roll, the change equals an extra 375 dollars annually. Renters could face higher monthly rents if landlords pass on the increased cost through lease renewals.
Local advocates note that the added expense would reduce funds available for groceries, vehicle fuel and utility payments. A household with two working adults earning median wages would see the tax rise represent roughly 0.6 percent of annual take-home pay, according to figures in the council's budget paper.
Revenue Use and Next Steps
The city budget document projects that the higher rate would generate 4.2 million dollars in new revenue each year. Those funds are earmarked for road repairs, park maintenance and fire department staffing already listed in the five-year capital plan.
Voters will decide the measure on 3 November 2026. City clerks will mail sample ballots and explanatory statements to registered households by 15 October. The government says the policy will take effect on 1 January 2027 if it passes.