Brauer: ...could you please cite a source that total Minneapolis commercial values are decreasing?
Heller: You might want to talk to Council Member Lisa Goodman. About a year ago, she told me that downtown's share of property taxes has dropped precipitously; from 50% to 20% I think. Apparently all of the new construction hasn't added much to the tax base. You might also call Finance Director Patrick Born and ask him why you are having such a tough time finding the figures. Or you might want to spend some time at the assessor's office. You would do a great public service by sharing your findings with all Minneapolis residents. If you want me to work for you, you'll have to pay me, a lot. Brauer: Commercial rate cuts and the wiping out of residential limited-market-value caps - both state actions - are key factors (possibly bigger ones) than market valuation shifts. To cit only one ignores reality. Heller: I listed four factors and you can add these two to the mix. What's your point? Brauer: Lots of condos are being built on parking lots or drastically underused spaces. Anecdotes are not proof, but a few places that are or soon will undoubtedly produce more property taxes include: Heller: Maybe yes, maybe no - it depends on whether the condos are sold, or they go into foreclosure. Earlier this year, the Strib reported a net population loss in Minneapolis of over 9,000 people in one year. As I recall, you didn't believe the census bureau either. Brauer: Huh? Have you seen our employment rates compared to our neighbors? Highest in the Upper Midwest - even through the recent recession, even faster than places with "low" property taxes. Heller: Great news! That means that Minneapolitans can afford to pay more property taxes to maintain public services and reduce debt. No argument here. I'm sure that the other Listmembers know your opinion on this subject and mine. I'm not trying to convince you David. I'm happy to let other people decide for themselves. Vicky Heller North Oaks and Cedar-Riverside REMINDERS: 1. Think a member has violated the rules? Email the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract ________________________________ Minneapolis Issues Forum - A City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
