Property tax initiative deserves residents' support

The initiative process is the avenue for citizens to address their egislature on matters they deem to need definitive attention.

The circulating property tax reform initiative is a cry for help, born out of frustration with the minimal response from the majority of the legislature, whose role it is to make the laws that govern this state. For too many years in communities where values have increased exponentially, homeowners have shouldered a greater percentage of the burden of government, education and services. So much so, that many fear they will have to sell and move from their home which was not their long-term plan and in many cases, it is the home where generations of their family have lived.

We support the initiative, even though it may face challenges. We support it because it is the only way that the citizens of Idaho will be heard. We support it because it will drive home a message, that some have turned their back upon with little care or concern for those who are suffering. The initiative will keep the discussion alive and give the debate about property taxes a new breath of life, and hopefully be the precursor to a more equitable, more supportable system that treats all Idahoans fairly.

The ongoing idea of taxing people for a value wherein they have received no direct benefit is ludicrous. Taxes should be based upon something that is real to the taxpayer. They should be able to understand the process and have a measure of comfort in knowing with certainty their community obligation, as opposed to the six months of abject fear from valuation notice to tax bill. That fear being the financial obligation, out of the reach of many, right before the holiday season. Additionally, we invite all of the legislators in the State of Idaho to spend the two weeks allotted for Board of Equalization with their commissioners. Hear what we hear; feel the frustration that we feel being the applicator of the law and impotent to change it; feel the heartache and the fear of the people that sit across the table from us, armed with little defense facing the assessors. It's not fun, it's not nice, and it needs to be changed.

So join us today, and second the motion of property tax reform by signing the initiative. Let's show solidarity with our own local legislators who have made an incredible effort to carry forth our plight, only to be met with resistance by others in the legislature. The progress this year is a beginning, but we must keep the discussion alive and moving. Let's work hard to send a fresh message that is urgent, loud, and clear and that will be well heard in Boise!

Marcia Phillips

Karl Dye

Joe Young

Bonner County Board of Commissioners