Some residents are skeptical that a majority of residents would support such a dramatic tax increase — and that the city really needs the revenue. Resident Bill Cox says he thinks the survey of 454 residents was misleading and manipulative. His wife was one of the 454 polled, but he does not support a 230 percent increase.

"With the economy being so bad, I don't think it's the best idea," Cox said. "I think operations need to pull back. If they can't cover costs for essential city services, then they should go to the residents. But a 300 percent increase at once? That's a lot."

The city will have one more public hearing on Aug. 12 before the new tax rate is approved by the city. In the meantime, each property owner should receive a property-tax notice in early August detailing how much the increase would cost them.

Former City Councilwoman Lisa Mariano says she can see how the increase will hurt, but she understands why the city would need to raise the tax.

"In terms of percentage, (the tax increase) looks huge, but in terms of money, that's the least of my worries," Mariano said. "I know no one wants to pay more than they have to right now, everything is tight, but everything is tight all the way around, and it's tight on the council, too."

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