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Show iC-huc- A Akerlow deadline missed As this column goes to press it appears the tax reduction petition being circulated by Mark Anderson and Austin Belnap wont be on the fall ballot due to a misunderstanding about the filing deadline. So be it. It appears the Utah Legislature will be the first to consider the issue of tax limitation at its general session next January. And no doubt all of the special interests will be well organized and posed to meet the issue head-o- n. The Republicans have pushed hard for tax limitation and the Democrats, briefly led by Governor Matheson, have dragged their feet. On the face of the reaction of both parties, it can readily be seen which constituencies each represents. Frankly, I am not unhappy the issue wont be on the November ballot. Highly important issues such as the rollback or reform of taxes should not be voted upon in an emotionally charged atmosphere. The combination of the victory of Proposition 13 and the reassessment of all Utah property this year has pushed most Utah taxpayers into a state of panic. I doubt any good solution to the tax problem could come out of that atmosphere. 5 t have said before, Utah desperately needs tax reform but it must be done in a way to permit government to render essential services in an effective manner. Reducing the tax intake will force government to set priorities. Drastic cuts in taxes could force government to retaliate in a senseless manner which would only mean tough times for all. As I The explosive situation in Utah comes as a result 1. A real estate boom which has of two factors: sent property taxes In checking all the assessments on properties I own, I notice the increases in market value amount to at least twice the value of the previous year and in one case ten times Yet I cant argue with the market the value. appraisal in each case because I know I could sell the property for more than the appraiser has estimated its worth. The remedy here is to drastically reduce the mill levy. sky-hig- h. its coverage of Utah business, The Enterprise is always germane. It is a very helpful forecasting tool. In Gil Shelton President Tracy Collins Bank and Trust Co. Burgeoning local and state government budgets with no apparent improvement in government efficiency. Taxpayers tire of seeing five guys standing around one shovel or encountering agencies so vast that no one can answer a simple question or provide simple service. 2. The elements are right for a prolonged, vigorous and intelligent debate on tax reform. The Legislature is the proper first forum and will be that forum since the Anderson-Belna- p petition apparently wont make it. De Enterprise means inisiness Utahs only business newsweekly. fit Those in local and state government should not rest too easily. Tax limitation and reform is on the minds and tongues of all Utahns. I have never seen an issue Watergate included so all engrossing. So government, you had better act wisely and well. The taxpayers have had it and the are ready to clean your house for you if you dont do anti-taxis- ts it yourself. O |