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Berman, Eltife Back Three Propositions
Posted: Thursday, 15th October 2009 2:50AM
TYLER -- Two East Texas lawmakers are voicing their support of three proposed amendments to the Texas Constitution. The propositions appear on the November election ballot. Following is a joint statement by Representative Leo Berman and Senator Kevin Eltife, concerning what's termed negative information relating to Propositions 2, 3, and 5:"We agree the ballot language for the propositions could have been better; however, Proposition 2 in no way implies a property tax increase by the state of Texas. In fact, the state is prohibited from raising property taxes by the Texas Constitution. Proposition 2 does exactly the opposite. It prohibits tax appraisal districts from using commercial property values in the process of appraising residential properties. By getting commercial property values out of the formula, residential appraisals should be lower than in the past.
"Proposition 3 would give the state the ability to make sure appraisal methods are consistent throughout the 254 counties of Texas. State funding for public schools is based on the taxable property in each school district. It makes sense to ensure property values are derived from the same set of rules.
"Proposition 5 would give two appraisal districts the ability to consolidate their boards of equalization (appraisal review boards). The amendment will give sparsely populated counties the option to provide an appraisal process that is handled professionally and in a timely manner.
"All three of these propositions will help Texas achieve a better property tax system. We recommend a yes vote on Propositions 2, 3, and 5." You can familiarize yourself with the proposed amendments on http://www.lwv.texas.net the LWV-Texas Web site, or http://www.sos.state.tx which is the Secretary of State's Web site.
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