REVERE, Mass. — The mayor is making a push to get voters out in November to vote on a question that would allow senior citizens in Revere a 10 percent property tax exemption.
The city of Revere is fast-growing and its real estate market is very hot right now. More and more families are moving there and putting down roots, but for seniors its becoming difficult to keep up with the cost of living for many of the homes they've lived in for years.
With homes becoming more difficult to afford for those on a fixed income, the mayor and other city leaders unanimously voted to put Question 1 on the ballot next month.
For those senior homeowners who qualify based on a couple of factors, including annual income under $57,000 dollars, they should expect to save a few hundred dollars a year. Had it been placed last year, it would have saved senior citizens in Revere an average of $451.00 dollars.
"It can create a squeeze for senior citizens who have already put roots down in Revere, who have already raised children and grandchildren. Who have built memories in their home and who want to stay," said Mayor Brian Arrigo.
Voters will have a chance to cast their ballot on November 7.
New hotels being planned, the redevelopment of the Necco site and hopefully the establishment of Amazon's newest headquarters in Suffolk Downs are the city leaders' best bets to be able to recoup all the revenue that will be lost should Question 1 pass.