Revolting Taxation – Michael Morse

Six years ago we sold our home in Governor Francis Farms and downsized to a little beach cottage on rented land that we made handicapped accessible. It was affordable because it sits on rented land and we were able to put in a roll in shower, ramps and wide doorways. We’ve been a one, modest income couple for decades, and things are tight, but managable.My City of Warwick property tax went from $3821.53 in 2024 to $6541.93 in 2025. Additionally, we pay $391.00 to Spring Green at Gaspee Point for land rent. Spring Green also pays property tax on the land my house sits on. We provide our own rubbish removal and street maintenance, including snow plowing.

$11,243.93 per year. That is what I am paying to live in a modest, 1600 sq. Ft., 2 bed, 2 bath home in Warwick with no land. Our evaluations are based on recent sales. Those sales include waterfront homes that sold for far more than the waterview and land based places.

Five homes in Gaspee Point have been introduced to the real estate market since November of 2025. The only activity has been consistent price drops. Homes here are now considered untouchable to homebuyers as a result of the land rent and tax increase.

I’ve been to the meetings, made the phone calls, had my evaluation lowered after an appeal and emailed my representatives. People here are truly struggling. Legislation giving the tax assessor flexibility would be helpful. Perhaps a law giving houses on rented land a reduced evaluation could be considered.

But it’s not. My City Council person says his hands are tied. The Mayor says sell your house if you can’t afford to live there. My State Representative and State Senator claim they are working on getting relief for the renters but say it’s complicated.

What is not complicated, but infuriating is writing a quarterly check which is double what other property owners in Warwick pay for comparable homes on land they own. I’m too old to move, and worked too hard to make a home where we can grow older together, not rely on government assistance and live in peace.

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Michael Morse, [email protected], a monthly contributor is a retired Captain with the Providence Fire Department.

Michael Morse spent 23 years as a firefighter/EMT with the Providence Fire Department before retiring in 2013 as Captain, Rescue Co. 5. He is an author of several books, most offering fellow firefighter/EMTs and the general population alike a poignant glimpse into one person’s journey through life, work and hope for the future. He is a Warwick resident.