Cost drivers (health insurance, salaries, fixed obligations) add up to roughly $10M in increases—that's a 6.7% jump. But councilors are debating whether the budget should grow by only 3-5%.
The gap between costs and targets means tough cuts may be necessary. Council members have said a 3% increase may not cover contractual obligations.
Property revaluation has already hit homeowners. Many saw double-digit tax increases before any new budget.
Result: A $400K home (now $650K) = 12.6% higher bill despite lower rate.
"The majority of our homeowners have had double-digit increases in their taxes."
"I absolutely do not want to go as high as a 5% increase — that drives people out of their homes."
FY26 Budget: ~$149.9M • Cost increases needed: ~$10M (6.7%)
Most spending is locked by contracts, salaries, and legal obligations. That's why every decision about the 14% flexible portion is a tough choice.
✓ Joint City Council & School Board Work Session
📍 City Hall Council Chambers • ⏰ 6:00 PM — Completed
✓ Fire Commission Budget Hearing
📍 Fire Station 2 • ⏰ 6:00 PM — Completed
✓ School Board Meeting — Budget Hearing #2 & Adoption
📍 City Hall Council Chambers • ⏰ 7:00 PM — Completed
✓ Police Commission Budget Hearing
📍 School Board Conference Room • ⏰ 5:00 PM — Completed
This is when the Council debates all department budgets and makes real decisions. Public comment is welcomed at every session.
General Fund Budget Work Session
📍 City Hall Council Chambers • ⏰ 6:00 PM — General Govt, Police, Fire, School Depts
Enterprise & Special Revenue Funds Work Session
📍 City Hall Council Chambers • ⏰ 6:00 PM — Water/Sewer, Parking, Stormwater
Budget Review Continuation
📍 City Hall Council Chambers • ⏰ 6:00 PM — Final work session before June vote
City Council Meeting — Public Hearing & Budget Adoption
📍 City Hall Council Chambers • ⏰ 7:00 PM — Anticipated continuation of public hearing and FY27 budget adoption
You don't need to be an expert. Share your perspective as a resident—that's what councilors need to hear.
Attend a Meeting
Show up to City Council meetings, especially May work sessions. You don't have to speak—councilors notice how many residents care enough to attend.
Speak at Public Comment
You get 3 minutes to address the council. Introduce yourself, explain what matters to you, and ask for specific action.
Email Your Councilors
Can't attend in person? Send an email before budget meetings. Personal stories are more effective than form letters.
Spread the Word
Share this guide with neighbors, post on social media, talk to your community groups. The more residents engaged, the better.
Remember
- Councilors are actively debating how much the budget should grow
- May work sessions are the most important time to participate
- Taxpayer concerns after revaluation are being heard—add your voice
- Even one person speaking up can make a difference
View the preliminary budget presentation and supporting materials from the City of Portsmouth.
View Budget Documents →Can't attend in person? Watch live broadcasts and recorded meetings on the City's official YouTube channel.
Watch on YouTube →Agendas, packets, minutes, and archived materials for all council meetings.
View Archives →Estimate your property tax bill using the city's online calculator.
Calculate Taxes →Can't find what you're looking for? Contact the City Clerk's office.
(603) 610-7245
Sources: City of Portsmouth FY27 Preliminary Budget (Jan 14, 2026), FY26 Adopted Budget, Portsmouth Herald (Feb 2-3, 2026)
Version: Feb 12, 2026 • Created by Progress Portsmouth