[Winona Online Democracy]
John Gunyou was asked about using income tax more to
fund government because it is fairer than other forms
of taxation as being based on ability to pay. He
explained how property tax is a much more stable
funding source because it does not go up and down with
the changing economy. I certainly understand the
value of a stable funding source. But, what about
stability for the tax payer - especially one with a
fixed income.
Property tax to fund State mandated services such as
education and social services causes the system to
collect more money as a percent of ability to pay in
those geographic areas with the highest need for the
government services. We do less for our needest
children and low income persons and thus perpetuate
the problems. I wish there were ways to stabilize the
income and sales tax funding such as adequate 'rainy
day' funds and rely less on property tax for state
mandated services which, by definition, cost more
where the need is greater. When Counties paid more
for the welfare benefits in the State there was a
statutory provision called Equalization Aid that
distributed state money to the areas with the most
need and lowest property tax capacities. We not only
are seeing cuts caused by legislative gimmicks but
also a shift of state resources to the rich suburbs
and lowering of any equalization attempts for inner
cities and poor rural communities.
Craig Brooks
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Craig
[EMAIL PROTECTED]
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