The Department of Revenue Administration (DRA) in Concord, New Hampshire has officially set the 2023 tax rate at $24.28 per $1,000 of assessed value. This represents an increase of $1.24 (5.4%) compared to the 2022 tax rate. It's essential to understand the breakdown of this tax rate, as it affects all residents:
- City (Municipal): $8.97 ($0.35 increase from 2022 - 4.1% increase)
- Local School: $12.53 ($0.61 increase from 2022 - 5.1% increase)
- State Education: $1.51 ($0.37 increase from 2022 - 32.5% increase)
- County: $1.27 ($0.09 decrease from 2022 - 6.6% decrease)
How the Tax Rate is Determined
The process of setting the tax rate involves collaboration between local municipalities, school districts, counties, and the state legislature. Each entity submits its respective budgets, along with the total assessed value, exemptions, and credits. The DRA in Concord then calculates the tax rate by dividing the combined budgets by the total taxable assessed value of the City.
As an example, if the sum of all budgets amounts to $100,000 and the total taxable assessed value of the City is $1,000,000, the tax rate would be $10 ($100,000 ÷ $1,000,000 = 0.10 or $10 per thousand). Although this example simplifies the process, it reflects the actual mechanism.
Participate in the Budget Process
Citizens can express their concerns, ask questions, and get involved in the budget process. We strongly encourage your attendance at the budget work sessions scheduled in November. These sessions are open to the public for attendance, although no public comments will be taken. The budget work sessions offer valuable insights into each city department and the overall budget, equipping you with a better understanding to provide feedback during the public hearing for the 2024 City Budget, scheduled for Wednesday, December 13, 2023, at the City Council meeting.
To reach the City Council before the work sessions or the December 13 public hearing, please use our Boards and Committees Form. The Lebanon School District will hold public hearings on their budget in January with a deliberative session in late January or early February regarding the school district budget. The Grafton County budget is voted on by the members of the House of Representatives whose districts are in Grafton County. The statewide education property tax is determined by the New Hampshire Legislature.
For more information about the city budget, please visit LebanonNH.gov/Budget.
Upcoming Tax Bills
Tax bills are expected to be processed and sent to property owners in the upcoming weeks.
We appreciate your ongoing trust and support as we strive to manage tax dollars responsibly and efficiently for the delivery of public services critical to our community. Your engagement and feedback are invaluable in shaping Lebanon's financial future.
Visit the Tax Rate Explained web page for more information about how tax dollars are utilized, and exemptions and credits. For more information, contact the City Manager's Office through the contact portal or by calling 603-448-4220.