Kingsport approves 24% property tax increase

The Kingsport Board of Mayor and Aldermen approved on second and final reading a 24% property tax increase. It passed in a 6-1 vote Tuesday night with Alderman Morris Baker casting the only NO vote. Inflation, maintaining competitive pay for city employees, meeting the city’s paving and infrastructure priorities, and offsetting $3.8 million in lost revenue from a tax on equipment owned by businesses and manufacturers have all been cited as reasons for the increase. The tax increase is expected to bring in an extra $10 million in revenue next fiscal year.