[Regarding “Buncombe Unveils Proposed Budget with Modest Bump for Schools,” May 24, Xpress:]
Higher taxes spent on nonproductive programs continue to drive taxpaying residents out of the city. Much like the federal government, prudent tax policies must be undertaken.
— Dick Domann
The Villages, Fla.
formerly of Asheville
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Expecting services without paying taxes is not prudent. Enjoy being home in Sanctimonious Florida.
He didn’t say anything about not paying taxes- he said paying taxes on nonproductive services.
Let’s face it, he didn’t really say much of anything! Nothing in the way of examples or specifics.
I agree he wasn’t specific. And I agree with his sentiment and don’t think you need a diatribe to get it.
Asheville residential property taxes are absurd compared to surrounding cities/towns that have little valuable commercial to offset the residential. Massive tax revenue increases over the last decade as the council just rode the property assessment elevator up. Rates should be much, much lower.
OTOH, if you’re going to hell, The Villages looks like a good place to start and ease your way in.
I’m curious about this claim. My understanding is that our property taxes are far lower than other urban areas in North Carolina, and even about 20% lower than they were when I first moved here in 1999, as a percentage of property value. Am I mistaken in this understanding?
You are very much mistaken. City of Asheville prop taxes are substantially higher than many other regional cities. In some cases almost double.
Yeah, they aren’t too bad. I mean Mars Hill or Johnson City probably have lower taxes but you know… then you have to live there. People just like to complain. The plus side is we get some people to move TO Florida rather than getting folks moving here FROM Florida.
Have fun in your retirement community! You’ll be missed! Personally I don’t find the taxes here too onerous but life is full of choices :)