Patrick Dorris News Today

An ousted Portsmouth city employee is suing the mayor and a city councilman for more than $5 million in a wrongful termination lawsuit.

Portsmouth's incoming city assessor has been mired in controversy in similar roles in the past.

The developments came to light during a contentious council meeting Tuesday night.

Allegations of the questionable behavior levied against interim City Assessor Janney Culpepper were not disclosed at Tuesday's meeting, but it was stated the city attorney's office would be investigating.

Interim City Assessor Janey Culpepper said as of Friday, her office has adjusted 1,000 parcels of land across 55 neighborhoods, reducing the city’s original proposed assessment value by 1.8%. And she’s working to reduce more.

Portsmouth's real estate tax rate is $1.30 per $100 of assessed value. Before he was ousted, City Assessor Patrick Dorris proposed reducing the rate to $1.17 per $100. The City Council will discuss the tax rate Tuesday.

Portsmouth's real estate tax rate is $1.30 per $100 of assessed value. Before he was ousted, City Assessor Patrick Dorris proposed reducing the rate to $1.17 per $100. The City Council will discuss the tax rate Tuesday.

The Portsmouth City Council formally voted to fire City Assessor Patrick Dorris at Tuesday night’s regular council meeting.

Council members ousted City Assessor Patrick Dorris in a 5-1 vote on several concerns surrounding high real estate assessment rates.

Sunday marks the beginning of CSA Week, an annual event that encourages people to support local farms.