LEAKESVILLE — For the first time in six years, Leakesville residents will see increases in both property taxes and utility rates beginning in early 2026. Town officials said the additional revenue is needed to repair aging water and sewer systems, maintain infrastructure, and prepare the town for future growth. 

The Board of Aldermen voted to raise property tax rates from 30 mills to 32.5 mills — an increase of about $25 a year for every $100,000 of a home’s value. According to Town Clerk Rex Garretson, each mill brings in about $6,800, meaning the 2.5 mill increase could generate roughly $17,000 in new revenue.  

Monthly utility bills to rise 

Utility bills will also rise about $8.71 a month for a typical household using 5,620 gallons of water. The additional funds, which the town was unable to provide an estimation for, will help the town keep up with rising supply and maintenance costs. 

Alderwoman McKay Lee Bray said the decision was difficult but necessary.  

“We haven’t raised our prices because we don’t want to do that to our residents,” Bray said. “We want to keep prices low for them and do what’s best for them, but also we have to keep in mind having clean water and sewer is also what’s best for them.” 

Garretson said small towns across the state face similar challenges. “Any small town can experience this problem,” he said 

Bray said she wants residents to know the town intends to spend the new revenue responsibly. 

“We have to manage our money well and get it fixed and done to make sure we have good and clean water for our residents,” she said. 

Still, some residents say the increase will add pressure to already tight budgets.

Residents brace for increase

Leakesville business owner Rebekah Stowers, who pays two water bills — one for her home and another for her shop — said the hike will have ripple effects. 

“It’s going to affect every aspect of my life,” Stowers said. “I understand why it has to happen — I do, but nobody ever likes for taxes to go up.” 

Despite the added cost, Stowers said she supports the town’s effort to invest in local improvements. 

“If we can keep that growth and keep that kind of progress and ideas of working together, we’ll be golden,” said Stowers. 

Payment timeline and penalties 

Residents will receive their tax statements in December for the 2026 year. Payments are due by Feb. 1 but can be made through August with a half-percent monthly penalty for late payments — reduced from the former 1 percent rate. 

Greene County Tax Commissioner Mark Holder encouraged residents to plan ahead and attend public hearings, which are held the first Tuesday of each month at 2 p.m., to share feedback. 

Town officials say they are seeking grants to improve existing amenities, including the town’s main parks- Bear Creek and Green. 

“I absolutely want to see Leakesville grow,” Bray said. “I want to see us be able to give back to the citizens — whether that’s with jobs and opportunities or whether that’s with a really nice dinner with new restaurants coming in.”