For the first time in years, Baltimore property taxes appear to be heading down.

The City Council has given preliminary approval to a proposal that would reduce the property tax rate by 1 cent per $100 of assessed value. Supporters describe the move as meaningful tax relief for homeowners.

Not everyone agrees.

Councilman Isaac Yitzy Schleifer voted against the measure, arguing that responsible tax relief should come from reducing government spending and finding efficiencies rather than shifting costs elsewhere.

“This is not responsible tax reduction. Responsible tax reduction is finding savings and finding ways to be more efficient within government to reduce taxes,” Schleifer said.

The measure still requires one final vote, but it is expected to pass.