As a lifelong resident of New Orleans and a property taxpayer for more than 42 years, I am deeply concerned about the proposal to increase property taxes to address the city’s budget shortfall.
I understand that the city faces serious financial challenges and that difficult decisions must be made. However, I question whether placing an additional burden primarily on property owners is the fairest or most sustainable approach.
Property owners already contribute substantially to the cost of government through property taxes and millages that support police, fire protection, public schools, libraries, recreation, drainage and numerous other public services. These services, of course, benefit the entire community — not simply the people who own real estate…