As City Council debates budget, proposed property tax increase doesn’t sit well with residents

By JACOB VITALI| Lowell Sun

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Community organizer Bobby Tugbiyele was among those who spoke against the proposed increase in property taxes. Tugbiyele, speaking from his background as a human resources professional, emphasized that while salary was one reason employees were leaving the city, it was not the only reason.

“Money should not be seen as a silver bullet response to issues of recruitment and retention. … I believe it will be fiscally responsible to ensure that the return on these investments yield more trust and accountability over our hiring practices. The ladder is still a rampant issue of concern in the community to this day,” Tugbiyele said.

Additionally, Tugbiyele spoke about the need for the city’s American Rescue Plan Act funds to be dispersed evenly, with African American, Hispanic and Asian American communities being disproportionately impacted by COVID-19.