Letters to the Editor: November 11, 2009

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November 11, 2009

Anonymous The Daily Star Wed Nov 11, 2009, 07:33 AM EST

School taxes have changed for reason

I am writing to respond to a key aspect related to Mr. Floyd H. McAdams' recently published concerns regarding the changes in both his Charlotte Valley Central School taxes and his Social Security income. Though I cannot comment about the status of his Social Security, I can discuss the facts that relate to the increases in his 2009-10 school taxes. By doing so, I hope to provide clarifying information for Mr. McAdams and others in similar circumstances.

The town of Davenport equalization rates changed from 2007 to 2008. In 2007, they were 77 percent. In 2008, they decreased to 69.6 percent. As these rate changes would eventually impact enhanced STAR exemptions, Mr. McAdams' individual STAR exemption decreased from $48,610 in 2008 to the 2009 figure of $43,260, a net loss of $5,350. As the enhanced STAR exemption decreased by $5,350, the taxable value of Mr. McAdams' property increased by the same amount. The 2008 taxable value of $25,646 was raised to $30,996 in 2009. This accounts for the approximate 20 percent gain.

In addition, CVCS increased its 2009-10 tax levy by 2 percent over the 2008-09 figures. As such, the levy also had an impact on Mr. McAdams' taxes. The greater impact, however, stemmed from changes in equalization rates that in turn affected STAR exemptions.

Those factors, unfortunately, adversely impacted Mr. McAdams' taxes at a time when there was apparently little or no growth in his Social Security income.

I sympathize with Mr. McAdams being frustrated with economic realities that are beyond his control.

It bears mentioning, however, that many such economic realities are also beyond the control of the school district, as well.

Mark R. Dupra

Davenport

Dupra is superintendent of Charlotte Valley Central School.

GOP candidates made us proud

I am writing on behalf of the City of Oneonta Republican Committee to thank all our candidates who ran in the city. Erik Miller, Michael Getman, Scott Harrington and Craig Gelbsman _ you did us all proud.

You all worked hard, dedicating time and money into trying to make the city of Oneonta, and Otsego County, a better place in which to live.

Oneonta is a great place to live in because we have citizens like all of you.

Jordan Shepardson

Oneonta

Shepardson is chairman of the City of Oneonta Republican Committee.