The Newark City Council is scheduled to hold a special meeting on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, immediately following its 5:30 p.m. organizational meeting at the Municipal Building in Newark.
Councilmembers are expected to consider a series of resolutions seeking amendments to the city charter that would authorize new local tax measures, as the city explores additional revenue options to support municipal operations and services.
One of the resolutions would allow the city to levy a tax of up to three percent on the sale of alcoholic liquors from retailers within city limits. The proposal is being revisited after failing to advance in a previous vote and is returning for reconsideration following recent changes in council membership.
Another measure would expand the city’s authority to impose a lodging tax on hotel and motel stays within Newark. The proposal would permit the city to add a local tax on visitors, in addition to existing state-imposed taxes, with the stated goal of offsetting the impact that tourism and temporary stays have on city services and infrastructure.
Council is also expected to discuss a proposed amendment that would authorize a tax on rents or lease payments for apartments and other residential properties. Under the proposal, the tax could be set at up to three percent and would apply beginning January 1, 2027, if ultimately approved. The measure would apply broadly to rental properties within city limits, including privately owned apartments and other leased residential units.
In addition to formal votes on certain resolutions, the meeting agenda includes discussion of the potential rental tax proposal, indicating that councilmembers may continue deliberations before any final action is taken on that measure.
Each of the proposed charter amendments requires approval by a supermajority of council before being forwarded to the Delaware General Assembly for consideration. If approved at the state level, the measures would grant Newark the authority to implement the taxes.
