The program I proposed was a free tax-preparation service designed to assist low- to moderate-income residents in completing their tax returns without incurring out-of-pocket expenses. Tax preparation can be costly, with the National Society of Accountants estimating an average basic tax preparation fee of around $250. For many families, this expense can be a significant burden, making them vulnerable to predatory services that charge high fees for simple returns.

By offering a free service, the program aimed to save residents hundreds of dollars, potentially providing thousands in tax refunds. These savings could directly benefit families, allowing them to allocate funds toward essential needs like groceries, utility bills, transportation, or even rent and mortgage payments. By easing some of the financial strain on families before they face more severe economic challenges, this program sought to prevent individuals from slipping into homelessness—a proactive approach to addressing the issue in our community.

With a modest $3,600 grant from the city, the program could have served approximately 300 residents, translating to an estimated $75,000 in savings for the community. This money would not only provide direct financial relief to residents but also stimulate the local economy by increasing spending in local businesses, ultimately contributing to the city’s sales tax revenue. The goal was to create a sustainable, community-focused solution to help residents stay afloat during tough times.

It is disappointing that our city leaders did not prioritize the well-being of residents when they chose to disregard such an affordable, impactful program. By overlooking this opportunity, they missed a chance to support a solution that could have made a meaningful difference for a significant portion of our at-need families. It is essential for city leadership to focus on the best interests of all residents, especially when a relatively small investment can yield such a positive and far-reaching impact.