Editor,
Before coming to the Maine Legislature, I thought government moved as fast as the proverbial tortoise. But in my first month of service, we passed a property tax reform package that provided Windham and Gray with over $2 million in local property tax relief, and more than $5 million in increased funding to our schools, which will only increase over the next few years.
The plan, LD 1, widely increased eligibility for property tax refunds for homeowners and renters. It also implemented spending caps on all levels of government.
One year later, the growth in local property taxes statewide has been slowed by 77 percent, according to a study by the Margaret Chase Smith Center for Public Policy at the University of Maine. The study further reports that growth in state spending has slowed by 78 percent.
The early progress of LD 1 is significant. Maine homeowners have saved $65 million in property taxes, and businesses have saved more than $10 million. For the first year since 2000, Maine’s tax burden has decreased, and the Smith Center’s study attributes that decrease to LD 1. We know there is still more work to be done, but these initial indicators show that the positive effects of LD 1 will continue well into the future.
It’s not too late to apply for the Property Tax and Rent Refund Program for property taxes paid in 2004. Applications for the program will be accepted until May 31, 2006. If you need an application, please feel free to call me at home at 892-6591, or e-mail me at RepMarkBryant@yahoo.com.
Rep. Mark Bryant
Windham
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