Residents in the Town of Smithtown say they're planning a rally to oppose a proposed 9% property tax hike that's on the table.

If approved, the average tax bill would go up $160 a year, according to the tentative budget.

In a letter to the town board and residents, Smithtown Town Supervisor Ed Wehrheim said, "This is not a recommendation made lightly."

Wehrheim said skyrocketing healthcare premiums, retirement contributions, insurance costs and inflation left the town with a $7.1 million shortfall for the next fiscal year. Town officials warn they'll have to cut at least 40 full-time jobs and reduce services like senior center programs, youth initiatives, community concerts, hazardous waste disposal and seasonal brush collection to remain under the cap.

"It is, however, necessary to ensure that Smithtown can meet its obligations and continue providing high-quality services in a financially sustainable way," Wehrheim wrote.

A total of 11 of Long Island's 13 towns raised taxes for the current fiscal year, with each claiming similar reasons: inflation and the rising costs of maintaining services.

The next regularly scheduled Smithtown town board meeting, which will include a budget hearing, is set for Tuesday, Nov. 4.