Once upon a time there was an island paradise whose natives enjoyed
bountiful seafood and were seldom victims of tribal warfare. The natives
tolerated blood-sucking insects and occasional rattlesnakes. Then along came
civilization. Not only did civilization bring diseases, but also the
hallmark of civilization, namely taxes. Nobody likes to pay taxes. However, most people can accept taxes if the
taxes are fair and not excessive. The proposed Levy County property taxes
were announced August 25. Without doubt many citizens question the fairness
of the assessments and the need for increases. Nevertheless, there is little
talk of rebellion. Reasons sometimes given for not protesting tax increases:
1. Ninety-five percent of the county property tax money is returned to
Cedar Key for Community Redevelopment.
2. Some people are paying a much bigger share of the taxes than others.
3. Nobody ever won a tax protest, except the American Revolution.
4. If we protest the assessor will come back and raise our assessments even
more.
5. Don`t rock the boat, someone might find out that I don`t live in the
property that I have homesteaded. None of these reasons are based on fairness or need. Let`s clear the air. The elected tax assessor should be invited to Cedar Key
to explain why assessments vary so much from lot to lot and city to city.
The Community Center that the City is purchasing from the Lions Club should
be put to use for the meeting. At that meeting we might learn how in less
than two years a lot purchased for $100,000 can be assessed at $246,500. We
might learn how adjacent lots can differ in assessment by $37,000. Those
citizens protected by the homestead exemption might learn how high
assessments affect the future sale of their property. ON SEPTEMBER 11, AN INAUSPICIOUS DATE, A PUBLIC HEARING REGARDING PROPOSED
TAXES AND BUDGET WILL BE HELD AT THE LEVY COUNTY COURTHOUSE. PETITIONS FOR
ADJUSTMENT OF PROPERTY VALUES MUST BE FILED BY SEPTEMBER 18, 2006. Perhaps
we can get the tax assessor to visit Cedar Key to explain his policies and
actions before September 11. | 