Kansans need property tax relief. Share your solutions to make the system more fair | Opinion

What’s one issue that Kansans can agree on? I am betting it is an unfair tax system. Counties and cities have to fund their obligations with property and sales taxes. Some people rightly rebel at property taxes, in particular. Solutions may be available if we can get our heads together. That’s why I need your help.

I served in the Kansas Legislature for six years and was part of a group that slowed down a disastrous tax experiment — but we left property taxes unaddressed. Would you like to end the voodoo formulas for property taxes, sales tax and fees that are hidden by smoke and mirrors? Very soon, fees, taxes and insurance will exceed regular living expenses for many.

Political gurus say Americans are angry and divided. Perhaps, but I’d say America is not divided. However, politicians are.

We need transparency in all levels of government to achieve the goal of fair and equal taxation with no exceptions. The best solution will not come from a group of people who created and benefited from the current disaster.

The current tax formula was introduced more than 35 years ago. It has not only escalated property taxes, but forced governments to raise sales tax from 3% to almost 10%. It’s another version of a failed experiment that is pushing homeowners into poverty and locking the doors on small business owners.

While Kansans suffer, both corporate America’s wealthy and well-heeled mutual funds buy our housing and agricultural assets with taxpayer subsidized dollars. Banning Chinese ownership may stir the base, but there is no shortage of hoarders.

We are not alone. Other states have made adjustments, including proposals to eliminate the tax altogether. The original goal of taxing land has escalated into a complex system where classifications, rolling averages and exemptions are rammed through legislatures by the wealthiest groups who enjoy sweetheart deals such as tax increment financing and STAR bonds— the list goes on. But our most unfair and unequal tax is on property.

Despite all the talk on the campaign trail, the Legislature has for years failed to address what its members know is a growing burden for Kansans. Given the choice between meaningful property tax relief for most of us, and income tax for a wealthy few, leadership always favors the latter.

Here’s how you can help.

The newly-formed Kansas Taxpayers Network has established a website to provide you, the taxpayers an opportunity to submit your story and suggestions on how to fix the system. Please take our survey — and tell your story, if you wish. Your information is confidential unless you are willing to be identified.

Sending a direct email will also work. Let us know if you would like to have one of us visit your group. Fire up your computer. Help us make Kansas fairer. I will report suggestions in the weeks ahead.

Send your emails to LowerKstaxes@gmail.com or submit the form provided at TaxesAreTooHigh.com