TAXES: This would be fair

I am so tired of hearing what is “fair” for property tax. (Nothing.) As long as assessed value is used, we are paying for someone who moves to this state with pockets full of money. If a home or lot in your neighborhood sells for a ridiculous price, property value increases for all nearby homes. (Is that “fair?”)

Taxing in Idaho needs to change. Eliminate all tax assessors. Statewide that would save millions.

Replace property tax with a percentage of the purchase price of your house, after 25 or 30 years, then eliminate property tax for as long as you’re the owner.

I am tired of my house being held ransom by the state; you never really own your home. I have lived in my present home for nearly 45 years, paid nearly $65,000 to $70,000 in taxes, totaling far above the original price. (Is that “fair?”) My home is 60 years old with no recent improvements, yet taxes increased this year $500. My wife and I are both disabled. (Is that “fair?”)

I don’t think anyone would mind paying tax on the purchase price of their home. Your mortgage is based on the purchase price, not what the value will be in 5 to 20 years. To qualify for a mortgage today, with assessed value of my home, I would not qualify. (Is that “fair?”)

Idaho legislators expect us to do with less. It’s their turn to do with less; they always want to replace one tax with another.

JM PLANTE

Post Falls