Chatham Chatlist Highlights

Date: Wed, 24 Feb 2010 12:48:27 -0500
From: Tom Glendinning
Subject: Survey of Chatham Taxpayers

Request to participate in a survey of Chatham County taxpayers:

Since 2005, Chatham County spending has increased by 63 %, from $ 49 million to $ 80 Million.  This survey asks what you think is proper and right about
this trend.  It also asks how you rate services among the departments.

The survey is a query to determine the opinions of Chatham citizens on the quality of government and the relevance of this trend in these economic times.  Many lost fifty percent of their portfolio strength in 2008-9, lost jobs, suffered foreclosures, lost home value below recent appraisal levels, and can not borrow or refinance with current banking practices.

The 2009 revaluation appraisals are limited by state law under general statute 105.  There is no flexibility built into the regulation governing tax department practices for determining real estate market value.

County spending determines the amount of paid by each taxpayer.  The tax rate and home value have little, real impact on the tax bill.  In the 1970′s, our tax rate was the highest allowed by state law and our values were very low.  In the last fifteen years, the values have increased close to full market value, and our rate has dropped.  However, the tax bills have increased steadily.

Let us know how you feel about the spending trend and county government.
Take ten minutes to fill out the survey.  You must live in or own property in Chatham County, N.C. to participate.  This effort is non-partisan.

Thank you for your interest and time.

The URL for the survey is:

https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/L9YRKDK