It is deeply concerning to see Mercer County's recent decision to reassess 2027 Property Tax values based by Market Value, a move that is both unethical and, quite frankly, unconstitutional. If you bought your home 20 years ago, and do not plan on selling, you should not have to pay more just because it's worth more! Raising taxes on your home by market value is the equivalent to taxing you on stocks that you hold and have unrealized gain, which was shot down by Congress in 2021. This is no different and is nothing but a money grab at getting us to pay even more taxes, which have already gone up 20-50% over the past 10 years. When is enough, enough? It our not our fault, nor burden to pay for Mercer County's mistakes.

As a homeowner in Mercer County, I understand the financial pressures that come with maintaining property, and this policy stands as an unwelcome burden on our shoulders. Taxing us based on unrealized property value essentially penalizes us for market fluctuations beyond our control, placing undue stress on families already facing economic uncertainties.

Historically, property taxes have been grounded on fair assessment values, providing a stable and predictable figure that allows households to plan their finances. However, with the county's new regulation, there lurks an uncertainty that threatens financial planning and the economic stability of countless residents. It's important to note that inflation has already squeezed household budgets, and this policy exacerbates financial strain unfairly.

A study by the National Bureau of Economic Research highlights that excessive property taxation can heavily impact local economies by reducing disposable income and, consequently, local spending. Furthermore, it discriminates against long-term residents who may not be able to afford sudden tax hikes but who are an integral part of the community's fabric. For fixed-income retirees, increased housing costs can force untenable decisions about where they can afford to live.

We call upon the Mercer County Board of Supervisors to retract this policy and to work collaboratively with the community to find a more equitable and realistic approach to property taxation. One potential solution could be implementing a cap on how much property taxes can increase annually, allowing for assessments that truly reflect economic conditions and investment in local property values, not just market speculations.

The citizens of Mercer County deserve clarity, fairness, and respect. Our community should not be penalized for value assessments that we neither benefit from nor control. Let's work together towards a solution that supports community sustainability and economic fairness.

Please join me in petitioning the Mercer County Board of Supervisors to retract their recent decision and to establish a more just property tax system. Sign this petition to make your voice heard and protect the financial integrity of our community.