City Mayor Jim Ford and City Council approved a 25% property tax increase for Lewes.  This equates to a .10 cent increase for every $100 assessed from last year.  For example, last year if a property owner’s home was assessed at $100,000 their tax would be $390 (.39 cents per $100 assessed value).  This year it would be $490 (.49 cents per assessed value).

Mayor Ford said the tax increase is necessary to help balance the budget deficit of $358,000 and to maintain common open spaces throughout Lewes.  Other measures will be taken to align the deficit.  Lifeguard hours will be cut as well as seasonal police officers and parking meter employees.  However, full-time city employees with get a pay raise of 2.75%.

Property tax bills will be mailed shortly after April 1, 2009 and are due by June 30, 2009 or a late fee will incur.