Proposal Pitched To Governor Would Help Homeowners In Their “Golden” Years Remain In Their Homes

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The Tennessee Conservative [By Paula Gomes] –

A proposal pitched to Governor Bill Lee would expand property tax relief for long-term Tennessee homeowners in their “golden” years.

Rob Mitchell, Rutherford County Property Tax Assessor, says an online petition has garnered over 1,200 signatures so far.

After requesting an audience with the governor, Mitchell has been advised that Lee’s schedule has no openings in which he may make an appeal about the current program which is 50 years old. 

Mitchell has also pitched the proposal to Senator Frank Niceley (R-Strawberry Plains-District 8) who has mentioned he is already looking at property tax reform as a subject to be addressed in the next session of the Tennessee General Assembly.

As it stands now, homeowners 65 and up, with a maximum family income of $36 thousand or less, get a $145 reduction in property taxes. Mitchell would like to see “golden” homeowners get a full reimbursement on their property taxes.

“It is important we value the contributions of our long-term homeowners who have dedicated years to building vibrant neighborhoods and communities,” says Mitchell.

As property values in Tennessee have risen, so too have property taxes increased. For some retirees on a fixed income, these increasing costs have forced them out of their homes.

Mitchell’s proposal would help lessen the financial burden on long-term homeowners in their golden years, and position the state as a desirable destination for retirees.

Increasing the financial flexibility of these homeowners would benefit local economies, says Mitchell. He points out that the state routinely gives tax breaks to businesses for this purpose.

Here is Mitchell’s letter to the governor:

Dear Governor Lee,

I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to you as the Rutherford County Assessor of Property to request your support for a proposal to expand the current Tennessee Property Tax Relief Program. This expansion would significantly benefit our cherished long-term homeowners and our great state as a whole.

In Tennessee, we take immense pride in our long-term homeowners who have tirelessly worked to shape our communities. The current property tax relief program, designed to support homeowners aged 65 who meet income requirements, has undoubtedly been a positive step in recognizing their contributions. However, I firmly believe that we can further enhance the program’s impact by extending it to provide full reimbursement of property taxes for these golden homeowners.

The benefits of such an expansion are multifaceted. Firstly, it would offer essential financial relief to those homeowners who, in many cases, rely on fixed incomes. By alleviating the burden of property taxes, we enable them to continue residing in their homes, where their wisdom and experiences continue to enrich our communities.

Secondly, improving the financial situation of these homeowners will increase spending within our local economies. This, in turn, will stimulate growth and economic vitality at the community level. Additionally, it sends a strong message that Tennessee is committed to supporting retirees, making our state an attractive destination for those looking to settle down and enjoy their well-deserved retirement years.

I am fully aware that this expansion will require a substantial investment when implemented statewide. It is indeed a significant commitment, and I acknowledge the need for careful consideration of the financial implications. Nevertheless, I urge you to view this as an investment in the financial well-being of our long-term homeowners, and also in the overall prosperity and future of Tennessee. Those who have no mortgage and have lived in their community for 20 years or more have earned the right to age in place without the threat of onerous property taxes.

Expanding the property tax relief program is a clear demonstration of our commitment to building strong communities and honoring the dedication of our residents. By supporting these homeowners, stimulating our local economies, and attracting retirees, we lay a solid foundation for a more prosperous and welcoming Tennessee.

In addition to the benefits I have mentioned, I would like to add that this expansion would also help to address the issue of housing affordability in Tennessee. As housing costs continue to rise, many long-term homeowners are struggling to afford to stay in their homes. This expansion would help to ensure that these homeowners can continue to live in their communities, where they have deep roots and ties.

I kindly request your support in making this proposal a reality. Together, we can create a brighter future for our great state and its cherished residents.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,

Rob Mitchell

Jeri Sutton, who signed the online petition, wrote, “I am on a fixed income due to age and disability. My property taxes have more than doubled while my income has been lower. With the increased cost of food and utilities it is very hard to make it from month to month. I have paid property taxes on my home for nearly 40 years. The county provides little resources for me since I have no children in school, I rarely drive on county roads and already pay wheel taxes. I think property taxes for people like me is an absolute overreach from the government.”

A Rutherford County resident who wrote to Mitchell to endorse his proposal said, “My husband and I have lived in the same home for thirty-nine years. We have paid our property taxes for every one of those years. We are now both retired and living on a fixed income. Any pensions that we have, NEVER give us a cost of living increase. Social Security RARELY gives us any cost of living increase. With the cost of every day living going up, our income is now stretched to the limits to cover groceries, medications, medical bills, gasoline for our auto, electric, water and other bills, plus maintain our home. We are not the only ones in this same predicament. I know that there are other seniors that live here in Tennessee that are struggling more than us. We did plan for our retirement, but did not plan enough to cover all of the added, unexpected expenses. It is a struggle for a lot of seniors in this state to pay their property taxes each year. Some of these seniors have been forced to sell their homes because of the rise in property taxes. We watch as this State (our home State) gives corporations millions of dollars in tax breaks each year, plus other tax breaks and wasteful spending. It is time for the Golden Homeowners of this State to enjoy some type of tax breaks!”

About the Author: Paula Gomes is a Tennessee resident and reporter for The Tennessee Conservative. You can reach Paula at paula@tennesseeconservativenews.com.