Taxes, not developers are county's real enemy

Taxes,

not developers are county's real enemy

In reference to the

new taxes for the school and judicial system we are

facing this year, I will vote no on the school issue for

the following reason. As a land owner (143 acres) I was

appalled at a 36 percent increase on the value of my land

that lies in a flood plain.

At every

rezoning meeting and in all the county newspapers many

people have the same complaints, "Developers are

destroying this county."

There are a

couple of things the average citizen doesn't consider.

Developers do not develop land unless the land owner

wants to sell. The reason to sell or develop is usually

for one reason. Taxes.

I purchased

my property 23 years ago. My intention was always to keep

this property in the family for my children. This can't

happen simply because of taxes. So, at some point, I will

help put more burdens on the school system. Anyone can

say the millage rate will not increase. This is usually

because it can't go any higher due to state law.

I hope the

citizens of Fayette County realize that enormous

increases in appraised values is a tax increase.

I firmly

believe in a sound school system. I have supported our

schools in the past. I just don't think the finances have

been handled well.

When even

flood plain property has a 36 percent increase in value

at one time I realize there is not much hope for my

children to retain our property in an undisturbed

condition.

There are

four votes in my home. I only control one, but everyone

else knows how to read a tax notice. Every home owner and

land owner in Fayette County needs to pay closer

attention to their tax notices.

Governor

Barnes has said he will not tolerate counties using a

backdoor approach to keep raising our taxes. Anyone who

feels their increases are excessive should contact the

revenue department.

We really

love the peace and quiet and solitude but when all the

trees and animals are gone, don't blame the developer.

Just blame me.

Charles

R. Futral

Fayette

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