Tax equity at the local level is what matters

As part of his campaign for higher office, Allegheny County Executive Dan Onorato talks about keeping millage rates the same. Generally good, but his unwillingness to deal with some areas where values have changed has now created a major issue that is going to cost millions to deal with and will, among other things, serve to make more money for lawyers.

In the end, it all will be of little help. Property taxes are very local by nature. My county property taxes are less than 15 percent of my total property tax bill. The major part goes to school taxes, a more modest amount to my township. The last time I looked I pay no state taxes based on property assessments.

I am only interested in assessment equity within my township. I don't think Mr. Onorato has shown good judgment in his handling of this issue.

 

JIM WELCH
Upper St. Clair