HARRISBURG – Senator David G. Argall (R-Schuylkill/Berks) pointed out numerous faults in the governor’s temporary property tax relief plan during a budget hearing with the Department of Revenue today.
Under questioning from Argall, Acting Revenue Secretary Eileen McNulty acknowledged that the governor’s plan doesn’t eliminate the property tax and doesn’t prevent property taxes from increasing in the future. Argall also expressed concerns about the way in which property tax relief would be distributed.
“The governor’s plan creates a situation in which very wealthy individuals in one zip code could receive a large property tax cut, while a middle class homeowner in a nearby zip code could get much less relief,” Argall said. “You can understand why I would like to work with the Administration to improve that plan.”
Argall also reiterated concerns regarding the equity of the temporary tax relief plan due to the distribution formula overwhelmingly favoring districts represented by Democrats, while most school districts represented by Republicans would be paying more in taxes and receiving less property tax relief.
“In the 21 school districts I represent, only four would get a significant tax break,” said Argall before listing many local school districts that would come out losers under the governor’s plan. “Why should taxpayers in these areas support this temporary property tax relief plan?”
Although Argall pointed out significant shortcomings in the governor’s temporary property tax plan, he commended the Acting Secretary for focusing on an issue of critical importance to every community in Pennsylvania.
“Many people have attempted to address this issue in the past, and I genuinely appreciate anyone who is willing to tackle this complicated and complex issue,” he said.