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It’s an easy decision to vote against tax increases on commercial property
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It’s an easy decision to vote against tax increases on commercial property
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By Robert Rivinius
Robert Rivinius is the executive director of the Family Business Association of California.
Re “November initiative that would bring billions to California schools and communities is an easy decision”; Commentary, May 13, 2020
The Oakland mayor is correct. It will be an easy decision to determine how to vote on the gigantic $12 billion commercial property tax increase on the November ballot. Just vote no.
In 1978, voters passed Proposition 13 because they were being taxed out of their homes and businesses. Prop. 13 changed that by creating certainty and predictability.
Now sponsors of the largest tax increase in California history say it would exempt smaller, family-owned businesses. However, three-fourths of them have “triple net leases,” meaning their rent automatically increases to cover tax increases. That will result in higher prices for all of us and cause many businesses to close, especially when so many of them are struggling to keep their doors open because of the COVID-19 shutdown.
And for voters who say this tax hike won’t impact me, watch out. If Prop. 13’s protections for businesses are eliminated, your home will be next.
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Robert Rivinius is the executive director of the Family Business Association of California.