American and Portuguese flags hanging across a street in a neighborhood.

Chatham Property Tax Policy: An Issue Important for All of Us

This isn't just a 'part-timer issue.' Here's why full-time residents of Chatham should engage in community engagement to advocate for better policy regarding property tax mechanics.

Outdoor dining table decorated with American flags and flowers for a patriotic celebration.

You're Not Getting the Best Help Possible Under the current proposal:

• Your wealthy neighbor (income $250K, assets $5M) receives a $1,390 tax break, similar to the benefits outlined in the property tax mechanics discussed by the Chatham RTP Alliance. • You (income $40K, assets $50K) also get a $1,390 tax break, reflecting the community engagement efforts to ensure equitable tax relief.

A wooden sailboat rests on grassy shore by calm water under clear blue sky.

Same benefit. Regardless of need - is that a good idea?

(With Means Testing Like Lexington)

• Your wealthy neighbor gets $0

• You get $2,000 PLUS access to deferrals

• More help goes to people who actually need it, promoting community engagement. This approach reflects the property tax mechanics supported by the Chatham RTP Alliance, ensuring that assistance is directed where it's most needed.

Evening baseball game with fans watching under tree branches.

Would you rather have $1,390 in a system that helps everyone equally, or $2,000+ in a system that targets those who struggle?

Aerial view of a coastal barrier island with sandy shores and nearby water channels.

Community Cohesion Matters

Part-time residents aren't tourists; they actively engage in community engagement through various means. They: • Serve on town committees and boards • Volunteer at libraries, churches, and nonprofits • Donate to local causes • Support local businesses year-round • Pay 66% of residential property taxes, highlighting their role in understanding property tax mechanics.

A lively indoor community gathering with diverse people enjoying food and conversation.

If this drives out middle-class part-time families:

• Only wealthy second-home owners can afford to stay in Chatham, leading to a decline in community engagement.

• As a result, Chatham loses multi-generational families, affecting the fabric of the community.

• Civic engagement drops, which is concerning for the Chatham RTP Alliance.

• The changing community character can be partly attributed to the property tax mechanics that impact long-term residents.

Full-timers lose too.

Rotary Club of Chatham float with American flag on a sunny day.

Fiscal Responsibility Benefits Everyone

• Chatham RTP Alliance's approach: $5.4M shifted annually

• Supports 3,257 households (rich and poor equally) through community engagement

• No verification, no accountability regarding property tax mechanics

Crowd enjoying a festive parade with patriotic decorations and American flags.

Targeted approach (circuit breakers):

• Costs approximately $500K-$800K annually

• Supports 250-350 households who genuinely struggle, enhancing community engagement

• Provides the same or even greater relief to those in need

• Annual savings of $4.6M, showcasing effective property tax mechanics