My company, situated in Limerick Township, has been subjected to fines amounting to thousands of dollars without any documented proof of original violation notifications. This lack of transparency has resulted in unintended violations and unforeseen financial burdens. As it currently stands, townships can issue violation notices with no requirement to provide certified communication to taxpayers or landowners. This is a troubling practice that can lead to undue penalties and create a climate of uncertainty and mistrust.

In the interest of fairness, good governance, and accountability, there is pressing need for a change in policy. We urge townships nationwide to require that all issued violation notices be sent with certified communication, ensuring rightful delivery and acknowledgment. This would offer proof of receipt and give landowners the opportunity to rectify situations before hefty fines are levied.

Every year, thousands of taxpayers across the country face similar fines, and the economic load is significant. A study by the Federation of Tax Administrators found that property tax delinquency cost U.S. taxpayers approximately $14 billion annually (FTA, 2020). This issue is not isolated to our locale but is a nationwide problem that needs to be addressed.

The incorporation of certified communication for issued violations promises to alleviate this burden, bolster confidence in local governments, and foster a more cooperative relationship between townships and their residents. Sign this petition to demand accountability, transparency, and fair practices from our local governments.