How about some tax relief up front, such as giving homeowners the option to pay five years’ homeowners tax up front and in return they would be exempt permanently from property tax until deed of trust (title) changes other than an immediate family transfer?

Counties could generate a considerable amount of immediate revenue. Some homeowners would experience a property tax-free retirement. Most of these folks have already made their contribution toward school taxes, fees, etc. Others with long-term plans to stay in their homes could finance into their mortgage these taxes, creating a reduction in the total monthly cost.

The county has nothing to lose; most of these properties will be back in their tax base at some time anyway. Most estates are sold and split up among the heirs.

The real test is wise use of this revenue by the county.

Ed Smith

Yuba City