SUSSEX COUNTY, DE — The period for property assessment appeals in Sussex County has ended with a low number of contested assessments. Fewer than 800 appeals were filed by the March 31 deadline, representing just one percent of the total number of parcels. This reassessment, the first in Sussex County since the 1970s, was a significant step for the county in updating its property values. County officials are now preparing to adjust the tax rate to ensure that the county remains revenue neutral despite changes in property values. The adjusted tax rate will be set for Fiscal Year 2026 and will appear in property tax bills sent out in August.
The low appeal rate suggests that most property owners were satisfied with the new assessments, reflecting a well-conducted and fair process. The county’s reassessment efforts were spearheaded by county staff, who managed the complex project over several months. Officials will continue to monitor the impact of the reassessments and will ensure that adjustments to property taxes are made to maintain fiscal stability. More information regarding the reassessment process and the new tax rate will be available later this year.
