Middlebury’s Tax Future is at Risk
Without new commercial development, homeowners will pay the price.
The Problem
- Residential property values are up 40–50% since 2020 Revaluation.
- Commercial property values are falling — many worth less than five years ago.
- After the 2025 revaluation, in the years ahead, close to 95% of Middlebury’s tax base could come from homeowners. That means the tax burden shifts directly onto you.
The Costs Keep Rising
- Town expenses grow 5% every year, mostly school costs.
- A new or refurbished school will cost $80–100 million — Middlebury must cover about 30%.
- With no remaining surpluses or savings, taxes will climb at least 5% annually — likely more after 2025.
Why Commercial Development Matters
- Residential properties cost towns more than they pay in taxes. (CT Farm Bureau Chart)View PDF
- Commercial properties generate a net surplus — helping keep taxes lower for everyone.
- Two recently blocked warehouse projects alone would have added:
Without responsible new development, homeowners will carry nearly the entire tax load — and property taxes will rise year after year.Middlebury needs commercial growth now to protect its residents and secure its future.