ROSWELL, GA — The full Roswell City Council is scheduled to take a final vote Monday evening on a proposed 20% increase in the city’s millage rate.

Roswell has not increased taxes in more than 10 years. City leaders initially proposed an increase of more than 50% before lowering the proposal to about 20%.

City leaders say the increase is necessary to keep pace with rising costs.

During a public hearing last week, residents voiced concerns about the proposal.

“If hard work and families are expected to live within their means, our city leaders should be held to those exact standards,” one resident said.

Another resident questioned whether an increase is needed.

“And the real question is, is the millage rate that you currently have sufficient for what is budgeted for this year? I think that answer is yes,” the resident said.

City Finance Director Adam Novotney previously outlined several expenses during last week’s meeting, including $2.5 million for the Atlanta Regional Commission, police patrol laptop replacements and a fleet replacement plan costing $3.9 million.

Another resident criticized the proposed increase during the meeting.

“Real leadership requires making tough choices, cutting waste, and prioritizing essential services. Not taking the easy way out by placing such a crushing tax burden on the backs of hardworking people,” the resident said.

If approved, the higher millage rate would increase property tax bills for Roswell residents.

Residents will be able to share their views during Monday evening’s meeting.

WSB Radio’s Bill Caiaccio contributed to this story.