Issue Position: On Property Taxes

Issue Position

It is time to repeal property taxes. With property taxes increasing so frequently, individuals with fixed incomes often struggle to keep up. Homes owned for years are forced closer to the precipice of foreclosure. Many first time home buyers find it almost impossible to acquire a mortgage due in part to high property taxes. Owning a home is basic to the American dream, and real estate is a key economic driver. It is time to spur on the growth of Pennsylvania's economy and open an honest discussion on repealing property taxes.

Increasing property taxes is simply not an option. And while the idea of repealing property taxes can sound drastic, it is important to note that monies currently acquired through this tax could be found through other funding sources. The following are three such potential sources:

Option 1 -- Marcellus Shale natural gas proceeds: This is a growing industry in Pennsylvania, and the monies received from it should first be used to fix roads and bridges that are being compromised by drilling efforts. The remainder should be applied to our schools and municipalities.

Option 2 -- Sales tax: In Lancaster County alone a one percent increase in sales tax is the equivalent to all the property taxes. Because visitors are also subject to local sales taxes, this is a huge opportunity for tourism centers like Lancaster County. On the contrary, property taxes rest solely on the shoulders of district residents. A simple solution would be to replace property taxes with a slight increase in sales taxes.

Option 3 -- Luxury tax: Since the economic turndown, most people in the District's communities have cut back on superfluous spending in order to meet basic needs. Increased luxury taxes could replace property taxes as a funding source without hurting those who cannot afford them.

It is time to open discussions about abolishing property taxes. Homeowners deserve to have this legitimate possibility explored.

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