JOINT PRESS RELEASE: Councilwoman Michelle Harlee and Councilwoman Willauer Encourage Eligible Wilmington Homeowners to Seek Property Assessment Appeal Assistance

October 14, 2026

Councilwoman Michelle Harlee and Councilwoman Willauer Encourage Eligible Wilmington Homeowners to Seek Property Assessment Appeal Assistance
The application deadline is March 14, 2027.

Wilmington, DE — Wilmington City Council Finance Committee Chair Councilwoman Michelle Harlee, representing Wilmington’s Fourth District, and Wilmington City Council Member Christian Willauer, 5^th District, are encouraging eligible homeowners to take advantage of the City of Wilmington’s Property Assessment Appeal Assistance Program, a resource designed to help residents navigate the annual property reassessment appeals process through New Castle County.

Following the recent New Castle County property reassessment conducted by Tyler Technologies, many Wilmington homeowners have raised concerns about unexpected increases in their property assessments. For some residents, especially low- and moderate-income homeowners, the appeals process can be difficult to navigate, especially when appraisal costs and documentation requirements create additional barriers.

“This program is about making sure Wilmington homeowners, especially those who may not have the resources to hire an appraiser on their own, have access to support and guidance,” said Councilwoman Michelle Harlee. “Residents deserve a fair opportunity to understand their assessment, prepare an appeal, and have their concerns heard.”

“In Delaware, the assessed value of every property is supposed to equal its fair market value, which is another way of saying what the property could be sold for,” said Councilmember Christian Willauer. “But many Wilmington residents believe the new assessed value of their home is more than they could sell their house for. This program will help Wilmington residents file appeals and make sure they aren’t paying taxes on an assessment value that is more than their home is worth.”

The City of Wilmington has partnered with First State Community Action Agency (FSCAA) to administer the program and assist eligible homeowners with preparing and submitting reassessment appeals.

Funding for the program is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Residents are strongly encouraged to apply as early as possible. Appeals must be submitted to New Castle County by March 14, 2027.

To qualify, applicants must be City of Wilmington homeowners with household income at or below 80% of the Area Median Income. Applicants must also provide documentation to verify eligibility, including:

• Income documentation showing your household is at or below 80% AMI.
• Government-issued photo ID (driver’s license, state ID, passport, or similar) for every household member age 18 and older.
• Social Security cards for every household member under age 18.
• Gross household income for the most recent 30 days for each household member with income. Examples include pay stubs, Social Security or SSI award letters, unemployment statements, pension or retirement statements, veterans’ benefits statements, workers’ compensation documents, TANF or other cash assistance documents, child support or alimony documents, self-employment or tax records, or an employer verification of wages if pay stubs are unavailable.
• Proof of City residency, such as a current utility bill, mortgage statement, property tax record, or other official mail showing your name and Wilmington address.
• Proof of property ownership, such as a recorded deed, current property tax record, mortgage statement, or other official documentation.
• Your current property assessment.

Through the program, eligible homeowners may receive assistance with:

• Gathering required documentation and completing appeal forms.
• Coordinating with a professional appraiser.
• Ensuring the appraisal report and required New Castle County forms are included and submitted on time.
• Tracking the appeal and receiving notice when a determination is issued.

Wilmington residents interested in getting started should contact First State Community Action Agency at (302) 498-0454.

For more information, visit:

https://www.wilmingtonde.gov/government/city-departments/real-estate-and-housing/city-of-wilmington-property-appraisal-assistance-program

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MEDIA CONTACT:
Yesenia Taveras
Director of Communications, Wilmington City Council
Office: (302)576-2585
Mobile: (302)757-5748
Email: ytaveras@wilmingtonde.gov
City Council Website: www.wilmingtoncitycouncil.com