Politics
Greenwich Voters Set to Cap Property Tax Increases to Inflation Rate
The November ballot measure would tie annual property tax increases to inflation, directly shaping what Greenwich homeowners pay each year on their primary residences.
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How we reported this
The Greenwich Board of Estimate and Taxation placed a referendum on the November 3 ballot that would cap yearly property tax levy growth at the rate of inflation starting in fiscal year 2027. The measure applies to the town's general fund portion of the tax bill and covers roughly 18,000 residential parcels in the 06830 and 06831 zip codes.
Rising assessments have pushed the median single-family tax bill to $14,872 in the current fiscal year, according to the town's 2026 budget documents. Local property taxes fund 68 percent of the operating budget, including schools and public safety, which explains why residents receive the referendum guide in their mail this month.
Under the proposal, if inflation runs at 2.8 percent, the average homeowner would see an added $416 on next year's bill instead of the $780 increase recorded last year. Renters could feel indirect effects if landlords pass along any savings or added costs through lease renewals.
Budget line items tied to the measure
Town finance staff calculated that the cap would reduce projected revenue by $2.1 million in the first year, requiring either spending reductions or draws from reserves. The referendum guide lists specific accounts, such as the $47 million education appropriation and the $9.2 million public works allocation, that could face adjustments if revenue falls short.
Residents can review the full text and fiscal notes on the town's website or at the Greenwich Public Library reference desk through October 15. Early voting begins October 20 at the Greenwich Senior Center.
The measure requires a simple majority to pass. If approved, the cap would remain in place for five years before another referendum would be required to extend or modify it.