OFFICE OF THE MAYOR

FIRST PUBLIC COMMENT AT

PROPERTY TAX REFORM TASK FORCE

MAYOR PEREZ ASKS TASK FORCE TO ENGAGE COMMUNITY IDEAS

---NEWS AND COMMUNITY ADVISORY FOR THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 27^TH---

5:30 p.m.--- The Property Tax Reform Task Force will hold its second meeting in City Council Chambers. Last week, Mayor Eddie A. Perez thanked members for their dedication to proposing long-term solutions to the City’s property tax issue. The first meeting was open to the public but was mainly informational. At this second public hearing, community comment and input is encouraged.

The Mayor received nominations from business and community groups and put together this task force that was approved by Council. This group of residents, neighborhood and government leaders, as well as business and real estate professionals, will work to find ways to protect and grow Hartford’s homeownership base, diversify the city’s revenue in lieu of property taxes, understand the impact of the property tax on business investment and reinvestment and also find the impact on renters.

Mayor Perez says, “It is important that community voices are heard on this matter. Together, we must continue to find new and innovative ways to keep our positive momentum going when it comes to vital initiatives such as increasing homeownership and opening new businesses. The recommendations from this inclusive and varied group of individuals will be submitted to the General Assembly for the 2008 Legislative Session in order to put through immediate State Tax reforms.”