Residents of Duluth’s Park Point Voice Concerns Over Rising Property Taxes and Assessments

Residents of Duluth’s Park Point neighborhood are facing a dilemma as property values soar and taxes follow suit. With billionaire Kathy Cargill’s recent spree of purchasing and demolishing homes on the Point, concerns about the future of the neighborhood are at an all-time high.

At a community meeting attended by around 100 residents, St. Louis County officials explained their upcoming process to assess property values and address the issue of rising taxes. Longtime residents expressed fears of being priced out of their homes, especially those on fixed incomes or inherited properties.

One resident, Jeff Witrak, suggested implementing a policy similar to California’s Proposition 13 to limit property assessment increases. County officials emphasized that any policy decisions would need to be made at the state level, urging residents to engage with their legislators.

The county’s appraisal process involves physical examinations of properties every five years, along with analyzing similar property sales in the neighborhood. Concerns were raised about Cargill’s purchases potentially inflating property values and the impact of demolitions on neighboring properties.

Efforts to consolidate parcels on Park Point were also discussed, with a goal of consolidating 60% of possible parcels by 2030 to provide homeowners with a clearer understanding of their property valuations.

As the community grapples with the challenges of rapid development and rising property values, the future of Park Point remains uncertain. Residents are urged to stay engaged in the process and work towards solutions to preserve the neighborhood’s character and ensure long-time residents can afford to stay in their homes.