Providence lawmakers OK tax increase

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) - It would cost more to live in Providence under a property tax increase narrowly approved by the Providence City Council Wednesday night.

Councilors voted 8-7 to approve increasing the rate by 25 percent and to repeal a break for owners of multi-family dwellings.

Many residents reported they could not afford the increase, and they have an ally in Mayor David Cicilline who is promising to veto the plan.

In a statement, the mayor says "This is absolutely not the time to impose any additional financial burdens on Providence residents, many of whom are already struggling to get by."

A veto from the mayor could stop the city from sending out tax bills next month.

Councilors say even with the rate increase, many taxpayers will be paying less because of this year's property revaluation.