Md. Shore Communities Consider Tax Increases

SALISBURY, Md. (AP) -- Local governments in Maryland's shore communities are weighing whether to raise taxes as they struggle with budgets hurt by declining property values.

The Daily Times reports that Salisbury Mayor Jim Ireton has proposed raising the property tax rate to 1.5 cents. It hasn't changed in four years and the city's tax base has decreased by $221 million.

The Wicomico County Council has raised the income tax rate from 3.1 to 3.2 percent. It takes effect in 2013. County Executive Rick Pollitt says he will propose a 7 cent increase to the property tax rates.

Ocean City Mayor Rick Meehan has proposed raising the property tax to 46.85 cents per $100 of assessed value. Leaders in both Worcester and Princess Anne counties are also considering increases to deal with revenue shortfalls.

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