R
oanoke property owners are facing an average 8 percent increase in their real estate tax bills this year, a historically high but downward-trending assessment since the pandemic. The city's director of real estate valuation, Kelvin C. Bratton, told City Council members that the last three years have been challenging, but he is hopeful that assessments will balance out.

    The increased assessment would translate to an additional $10.7 million for the city's coffers, which is a significant portion of Roanoke's budget. The city's tax rate has remained unchanged since 2015 at $1.22 per $100 in assessed value, but some residents and politicians are urging a tax cut or temporary relief as some homeowners face double-digit increases.

    Roanoke's elected leaders have seen their own tax assessments go up this year, ranging from 1.5 percent to nearly 20 percent. Councilman Nick Hagen noted that "Council isn't immune from the increases either," and he hopes his colleagues will consider providing relief to residents.

    City officials say every one cent in the real estate tax translates to $1 million in the budget. Tom Blanton, a long-time property owner, asked leaders to consider a 2-cent reduction in the tax rate, citing that the massive increase in taxes is excessive and part of it should be returned to taxpayers.

    Property owners have until February 5 to file appeals with the Office of Real Estate Valuation, and if they disagree with the decision, can then appeal to the Board of Equalization. The city also offers various real estate tax relief programs for eligible residents.