Hawaii voters will be asked this election season to vote on a constitutional amendment to allow the State of Hawaii to asses property taxes in addition to the County of Hawaii or other Counties within the State. In my opinion, it’s a terrible idea for multiple reasons. The number one reason is the amendment states that the assessment would only be on “investment property”. In addition the assessment, at least initially, would be used to “support public education”.

A vast majority of “investment” residential real estate is owned by non State of Hawaii residents. Given that fact it’s obvious that these owners will have no say or vote on being additionally taxed much less how much tax. Taxation without representation has started a few wars to my knowledge and the easy way for these “investors” to “win” the “war” is to sell their properties and take their money to another State.

Read the attached flyer for a few other reasons this is a bad idea even if for a great cause. Our struggling public school system does deserve proper funding and management. Several of my friends are public school teachers and believe me, they make great sacrifice to remain as teachers. Their abilities could earn them much more money and benefits elsewhere and they continue their dedication because of their passion for our kids!!

Let’s find a better way to fund our schools than chasing away owners of “investment properties” which are primarily out of State owners.

Click Here for the “Vote No’-Real Property Tax Constitutional Amendment flyer

Written by Rick Oliver on August 20, 2018
Posted in: Real Estate | Tags: real estate tax, taxes