I have been following  all the discussions lately that have focused on County property taxes.  I am also aware that many of our citizens have been in some way impacted by the downturn in our national economy, which has brought this issue to the fore front.   Some families have had truly tangible, life altering experiences such as loss of a job, a home, or retirement savings. 

The concern about ever increasing property assessments is not a new issue to me and other county officials.  It is an issue that is and will continue to be addressed in a way that allows Harford County to provide much needed services to our citizens and focus on reducing the amount of hard earned dollars and cents that residents pay for the privilege of living in our great county.

Over a year ago I worked with the county council to develop a phased in reduction of the property tax cap.  That agreement started with a reduction of the cap from 10% to 9% which took place this year.  The next step is to reduce it from 9% to 5% by the FY11 budget (calendar year 2010).  This will put us more into line with surrounding counties and reduce the affect of the increasing state assessments. 

Last year we also improved the Home Owner's Property Tax Credit Program by changing the income and asset limits.  A new law passed this year will allow us to again improve that program by reducing the age limit from 70 to 65.  Since the law does not really take affect until after June, I will be working with the council to pass this legislation in July so we can have it in place for next year.

This plan for a reduction of the property tax cap to 5% provides meaningful tax relief for Harford’s citizens. 

Watch the county's website to see when these pieces of legislation will be on the county council's agenda so you can contact your council member.