Prop 13 was definitely needed in its day—the elderly were often unable to pay their reassessed property taxes on modest homes they had lived in for decades.
However it has created a “two class” system of old homeowners and new ones—and of course created a strong motivation for folks to stay where they are instead of moving—for any reason.
Another untold story is how many dead people are still “alive” in their houses which are actually lived in by family members.
New York City has the same issue with rent control—there are stunning incentives not to report a relative’s death.
The issues cannot be dealt with until/unless they are openly discussed.
It looks like the problem in Colorado is that they’re jacking up the assessed values. This is part of what Prop 13 addressed in California, i.e. assessments can only increase 2% a year.
Under Prop 13-—a NEW OWNER knew exactly what his NEW taxes would be.
Under the old system-—Long time home owners -—who DID NOT WISH TO MOVE-—got hammered-—and new owners also were facing a total crap shoot. Under Prop 13——the KNOWNS exceed the UNKNOWNS.
I know a couple who moved completely out of state from their rural property in Calif. Their County Assessor was valuing the entire property as a residence-—when rules said that area used for animals or agriculture were to be assessed at a lower rate. After several run-ins with the local Assessor-—they went to SO MISSOURI-—on a MUCH larger property-—built a handsome home/barn, etc & pay alot less in taxes from their retirement.
Their assessor was totally arrogant about the whole thing.
I am in N Nevada——property taxes here are reasonable-—but I live RURAL. NO street lights-—no curb & gutter (no rain) high desert-—NO FIRE HYDRANTS-—we all have wells...entire school compound is on one piece of property, etc.
MY taxes took a big jump this time, but we FINALLY got a full time manned fire station——One was opening in 2008, but Obama economics killed it. I will gladly pay more for a 24 hour manned fire station. Otherwise, our increases are held to 3% a year.
Prop 13 is still needed now.
If you don’t have Prop 13 there would be a lot more renters and fewer owners. The rich will continue to get richer.
If you have people constantly moving, then it would other problems.