Implement incentives for new home builders and the renovation of existing properties
AN OPINION by Jesse Wilson, Wellsville
Home sales in Allegany County have increased over the past five years, increasing the tax base. Despite this increase in real market value, the county has yet to consider tax increases. Instead of raising taxes, the focus needs to be on driving money into the county in other ways, such as:
- We get people from larger cities like Buffalo and Rochester to build homes in the area instead of recruiting campers who don't contribute to the tax base.
- A larger population and more buildings would lead to higher property taxes
- Local businesses would see increased traffic to their operations, which would increase the sales tax base.
- Newly constructed homes should be subject to a five- or even 10-year property tax cap totaling $5,000 per year. The size of the home doesn't matter as long as it is built by local Allegany contractors and building material suppliers. No mobile homes or embellished sheds, building permit required. Maximum increase in assessed value of 3% per year
- If there are not enough licensed contractors in Allegany County to meet housing needs, outside contractors could qualify if they pay a fee and agree to source materials only from Allegany County suppliers.
- Anyone who owns or purchases an older home in need of renovation in the county and invests $50,000 in necessary renovations to the home will receive a 25% reduction in property taxes and a maximum annual increase of 3% thereafter. There must be a noticeable improvement (with supporting documentation) to the house and its external appearance.
Allegany County has passed a law that allows them to increase property taxes for many people who work and support the local community but cannot afford more taxes. If you continue to raise taxes, you will push good tax-paying residents out of the county or into the welfare system, which you currently have difficulty paying for.
I believe if the county can incentivize new home builders and rehabilitating existing properties, it will produce results. By building new homes and reducing dilapidated homes, the county can increase the tax base and not have to increase property taxes.
Allegany County is a beautiful place to live, but we need someone who will be committed and committed to bringing the people, industry and money back there.
Jesse Wilson is a retired real estate developer and property owner in Allegany County for 25 years. He loves the area and believes many others would invest and build if given the opportunity.
