Smyrna Times

TAX BURDEN IS AGAIN REDUCED

Mayor and Council of Middletown, Have Cut Rate in Half in Past Four Years

SPECIAL MEETING HELD

Middletown with its population of about 1,300, is one place in these United States where lower tax rates means something more than just talk. Four years ago the residents of that town were paying $1.50 per $100 for town real estate tax. Twice the tax rate has been cut and last week Mayor Louis Levinson and City Council again slashed the rate, for the third time, to 70 cents per $100. Even with the tax rate down to 70 cents, Mayor Levinson believes Middletown will have more money in the bank at the end of this year than ever before, providing, of course, no unforeseen emergency arises. Mayor Levinson and the City Council held a special meeting. It was the opinion of the majority that if the citizens of Middletown ever needed a reduction in taxation then this was the time and in view of the excellent financial condition of the town and the earnings of the local light and water plant, it was felt that a 70-cent tax rate could be maintained without any hardship. Two years ago the tax rate was cut to $1.20; last year to 90 cents and now it stands at 70 cents and the town officials are ready to cut it more if the town finances can stand it.