We are looking for leadership in lawmaking. This is a bi-partisan petition from people who care deeply about their neighborhoods.

Homeowners in many Boise neighborhoods feel that property taxes are going up so fast, we fear being forced out of our neighborhoods. Sharp increases make it harder for long-term residents to stay. Even newer residents are frustrated by annual increases that exceed inflation and income increases. If it keeps going this way, only the wealthy will be able to live here, destroying the diversity and character of our neighborhoods.

We are not anti-taxes, just wanting fair taxes on what, for many of us, is our single largest investment. (No other investment instrument is taxed annually on possible, unrealized-sale value, as is real property in Idaho.)

Like our country's founders, we need representation in our taxation. Please explore legislation that ties property tax percentage increases to something closer to residents’ real lives and ability to pay. Perhaps an improved basic matrix can include annual rate of inflation, household income, length of residence, or age. We need a new approach that does not penalize committed residents for staying in, paying for, and improving their homes and neighborhoods.

The property tax appeals process, hardship exemptions, and the circuit breaker program do not meet our concerns. We are troubled by the current system, which requires leadership to correct.

This situation affects the well-being of every Idaho homeowner. We are voters trying to let you know that many constituents think the system for taxation seems flawed and requires your attention. Please help.

Note: This is not a complaint about public employees doing their jobs. We want a better system, with which everyone can work.

Boise neighborhoods starting this petition include:  North End, Highlands, Central Foothills, Sunset, Adams Street, Somerset, Rainbow Estates Subdivision, Harrison, Highlands Hackberry, Boise Heights, El Pilar, Collister, Highlands Hackberry on Torridon, and others.

Thank you for representing us and caring about our neighborhoods.