Multiple individuals have written letters to Ocala-News.com in the past few weeks sharing their opinions about property tax increases. Here are a few of those letters:
“As two seniors who have lived in the same house for 46 years, put down our roots here in Marion County, both worked jobs, raised our family, spent our money locally, and paid our property taxes, I’d like a say about the property tax situation. My husband’s disability (from manual labor since 16) limits our finances. I have a modest income. I don’t mind paying something towards supporting our community, what I mind is how much they take, how they spend the money they take from us, and the extreme penalty they exact on those unable to pay the tax. The county can take a fully paid for home , (offering no compensation), from anyone unable to pay after a certain amount of time. At a time in their life when most elderly persons can no longer work, have health issues, have become widowed, poured their life’s work into their greatest asset, it can be taken in this manner. I suggest placing a lien on a property for any back taxes, to be paid in full upon the sale, trade, or death of the owner. It seems criminal , cruel, and unnecessary to continue this practice of collecting, when there are more humane answers. NOTE: THE MC BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS passed Amendment 11 three years ago. It’s a tax exemption for low income, long-term elderly residents. Must apply for it.” – Joy Rumans, Ocala
“I live in JB ranch, purchased in July 2024. I am 82 years old and live on Social Security, plus a few small investments. My tax bill is almost $4,000. My monthly income is roughly $2,500. This covers utilities, food, gas, HOA fees, etc. My taxes are out of control and ridiculous. My house is for sale since I no longer wish to live in Marion County.” – Thomas Christ, Ocala…