Hershman: Homeowners can submit e-testimony on property tax reform New state Web site also offers many resources for taxpayers

Posted by Indiana RealEstateRama

September 20, 2007

(STATEHOUSE) – Sen. Brandt Hershman (R-Wheatfield) is encouraging Hoosiers to offer their personal experiences and suggestions for property tax reform by submitting e-testimony via the Web site of the State Commission on Tax and Financing Policy.

Hershman, one of five voting members on the committee, said testimony of 500 words or less can be submitted online at: www.propertytaxreform.in.gov or by U.S. Mail.

“Every property taxpayer in our district has an important story to tell and their own suggestions about property taxes,” Hershman said. “I sincerely hope people will take advantage of this opportunity to contribute to our efforts to reform the property tax system in Indiana.”

All testimony submitted by Nov. 1 will be reviewed by the commission, Hershman said.

The Web site is also a resource for taxpayers and includes:

frequently asked questions on property taxes and assessment;
where local property taxes go;
what the state is doing (property tax replacement funds, direct relief, ordered reassessments, new tools to reduce local government dependence on property taxes);
what local governments can do (cut spending, contain government construction costs, shift to other revenue streams, extend deadlines, accept payments and waive penalties); and
what taxpayers can do (contact assessors, appeal assessments, file for mortgage exemption, homestead credit, blind deduction, disabled deduction, over-65 deduction, veteran deductions, and apply for payment plans).

Hershman serves Senate District 7, which includes Carroll, Clinton, Howard, Jasper, Tippecanoe and White counties.

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