Property tax fight gears up
Once again, Rep. Lindsey proposes to “fix” the unfairness in the state’s property tax system by introducing yet more inequity:
State Rep. Edward Lindsey (R-Buckhead) said the current crisis sheds light on a flaw in the system — that assessments are a tax on an unrealized gain — an issue that draws some complaints when values are rising but seems just plain unfair when they tumble.
The following correspondence was sent this morning to various reporters, state legislators and those quoted in the article:
D.L.,
If you will give me a little time I can show you, mathematically and without question:
1. Rep. Lindsey’s tax "freeze" proposal, if adopted, will introduce MORE unfairness into the tax system and financially harm the most vulnerable taxpayers;
2. There is a VERY simple solution to the "problem" that Lindsey seeks to solve. The problem isn’t "tax on unrealized gain;" there is a foundational flaw in the property tax code that politicians REFUSE to fix because it would result in more fairness and transparency and LESS power in their hands;
3. If that flaw is fixed, it would not matter AT ALL whether or not property owners were taxed on "unrealized gain." Lindsey’s concern would become a non-issue.
The solution isn’t anything new; the state Department of Revenue has taught this simple concept to tax commissioners, assessors, appraisers and Board of Equalization members for decades. I learned the solution to the problem from the state 15 years ago!
There are numerous other benefits as well to simply "doing the math." I am a former Board of Equalization Chairman with training in property tax matters. I publish the site at www.millagerate.com where I explain the problem, the solution and how the State Legislature could very easily eliminate many of the problems with the tax system, and without a constitutional amendment.
I field dozens of inquiries a year on Georgia property tax matters. This time every year, I contact every legislator to educate them and encourage them to address the root problem with the tax code. While a handful, including Lindsey, have expressed an interest only Senator Curt Thompson has offered significant assistance when, several years ago, he asked Legislative Counsel to draft a bill.
I am angered to see the AJC present Lindsey’s proposal without challenge, when he has no clue what he is doing. I invite you to meet with me to discuss this topic.
You can help move this issue in the right direction by contacting your representatives in the State Senate and House of Representatives and directing them to MillageRate.com.
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