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Cheshire's Grand List Soars: $11.06 Million Increase Signals Economic Health

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  Published in Politics and Government on Saturday, February 28th 2026 at 1:14 GMT by Patch
      Locales: Connecticut, UNITED STATES

CHESHIRE, CT - February 28th, 2026 - Cheshire town officials today announced a significant $11.06 million increase in the town's grand list, signaling strong economic health and promising a stable fiscal future for the community. The grand list, a comprehensive assessment of all taxable property within Cheshire, serves as the foundation for determining annual property tax rates and projecting revenue for the upcoming fiscal year.

Town Manager Michael Johnson hailed the growth as a direct result of sustained investment and development initiatives within Cheshire. "The growth in our grand list is a positive reflection of the ongoing investment and development in Cheshire," Johnson stated. "This demonstrates the attractiveness of our town for both residents and businesses." He further explained that the increase stems from two primary sources: new construction projects and a general rise in property values across the town.

This isn't simply an abstract numerical increase; it translates directly into tangible benefits for Cheshire residents. The expanded grand list will positively impact the town's revenue projections for the 2026-2027 fiscal year, potentially allowing for continued funding of crucial town services without placing an undue burden on taxpayers. Johnson hinted at the possibility of easing the tax burden, though cautioned that final budgetary decisions will be made following a thorough review of all town expenses.

Understanding the Grand List and its Impact

The grand list isn't just about collecting taxes. It's a critical snapshot of the town's economic vitality. It encompasses assessments of all taxable property, including residential homes, commercial properties, and personal property owned by businesses. The assessed value of each property, combined with the town's mill rate (the tax rate per $1,000 of assessed value), determines the amount of property tax owed. A growing grand list, even with a stable mill rate, can significantly increase overall tax revenue.

Cheshire's increase follows a national trend of rising property values, fueled by limited housing supply and increased demand in desirable areas. However, the town's proactive approach to attracting new businesses and encouraging responsible development distinguishes it from towns relying solely on market fluctuations. Recent commercial projects, including the expansion of the Cheshire Industrial Park and the revitalization of the downtown area, are believed to have contributed substantially to the grand list growth.

Looking Ahead: Balancing Growth with Community Needs

The town's leadership acknowledges that sustainable growth requires careful planning and consideration of community needs. While increased revenue is welcome, officials stress the importance of responsible budgeting and prioritizing investments that enhance the quality of life for all residents.

"We are committed to ensuring that this growth translates into improvements in areas such as our schools, infrastructure, and public safety," Johnson emphasized. "We must balance the benefits of increased revenue with the need to maintain the character and quality of life that makes Cheshire such a special place to live and work."

The town council will be holding a public hearing on March 15th to discuss the proposed budget for the 2026-2027 fiscal year, providing residents with an opportunity to voice their opinions and priorities. Residents are encouraged to attend and participate in the budget process. Further details on the public hearing and the proposed budget will be available on the town's website (www.cheshirect.gov - link checked and valid as of 2026-02-28).

The continued growth of Cheshire's grand list demonstrates the effectiveness of the town's economic development strategy and positions it for continued success in the years to come. It also highlights the importance of maintaining a business-friendly environment and fostering a strong sense of community to attract and retain both residents and businesses.