Tax Reform Initiatives
Young men and women in this country are rediscovering the power of the word “no.” While it may be uncomfortable, I intend to use this word when it comes to any project, policy, or idea which does not benefit the Bangor families and taxpayers. I can’t promise this will be enough to stop the tide. I need other Republicans to win seats on the City Council.
Community Impact
Lowering taxes will empower residents and stimulate local economic growth, making Bangor a more attractive place to live and work. What else can you say about it? High taxes drive away high earners. They drive away low earners, too. At least once a week my wife talks about selling our beloved, 126-year-old home on Pier Street.
I am not giving up that easy.
I will seek to lower the “mill rate” from its current $17.70 to $12.70 per $1,000 of value on a first property. Those who own multiple properties will receive this lower rate on their most valuable property. Ultimately, I would like to see a progressive, sensible policy which keeps the city lights on but also grants more leeway to struggling families.
In the future, it would be nice if a family’s income were taken into account when assessing how much property tax they should pay.
The Dreaded Assessors
The city hired a bunch of private individuals to invade the homes of residents in order to “assess” their “real” value. I can’t name a single person who complied with these people who did not experience a property tax increase, nor can I name a single other person who did not experience an increase.
Personally, I avoided them at all costs. I’d rather take a gamble on what the market values my home at, than some jerk who doesn’t even own a home.
Exemptions
We need real exemptions for real situations.
For example, should someone who worked their whole life to buy a home in Bangor, and now lives on social security retirement alone, be forced to pay the same property tax rate as 38-year-old me, who works full time? I think not.
I will work with my fellow city councilors to develop something unique for Bangor, something that works for everyone. It will involve A LOT of community feedback, so if you have any ideas, please get them in order and send them off to [email protected] right away.
Governance in a democracy like our beloved America should not be just speaking to a brick wall.
Liberals will be hard-pressed to argue with ideas that benefit everyone equally. I am not looking to raise taxes on anyone. That starts with shrinking the budget.
Yes, we will eliminate “woke” projects from the city’s payroll, but they will not be targeted specifically. All parts of the budget will be systematically assessed for how they benefit all city residents equally, and anything that doesn’t fit, it doesn’t ship.
I believe in my heart that the situation is salvageable. Despite all my hardships, I still have money in my pocket. The last thing I will do is let my family go homeless due to taxes. Running for City Council is as much about me as it is about you, Bangor. I am running for my life.