15 hours ago
Solving property taxes isn't Quantum Physics. Ohio lawmakers must stop stalling
Listening to our Ohio legislators, one would think solving the property tax problem is like solving World Peace and world hunger at the same time. It's not that hard. It's ridiculously simple. So, Ohio representatives and senators, listen up. I'm about to make you all heroes, and at no charge.
Freeze property taxes for homeowners at current levels. Period. The assessed property tax amount would not change until the property was sold, at which time the property tax would rise to a newly assessed amount to be calculated before the sale.
More: Ohio homeowners want property tax relief. Other states may offer a solution
There. How hard was that?
This method is fair because it prevents homeowners from being taxed on unrealized gains, and new buyers will know what their property tax will be for the entire time they own the home. No more surprises every few years. Also, existing homeowners will not be forced to sell their homes due to unaffordable tax increases that, at present, can't be budgeted for, since future tax increases are always an unknown cost.
More: No more property taxes? Ohio group pitches amendment to get rid of them
So, Ohio legislators, stop acting as if this is some Quantum Physics problem and get it done.
Steven Otto, Maineville
This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Stop the increases and freeze Ohio property taxes now | Letter
