Many seniors have been losing their homes because of failure to pay school and real estate taxes on the property. Here are my thoughts on the subject:
When a senior starts his Social Security pension all taxes should be frozen on that property until sold or death of the owner.
People will say we can’t do this because there would be a shortfall in the budget for the schools. Here is how we overcome this. Today, seniors do not have children using school but there are hundreds of children who live in apartments. Their school taxes per family are much lower than an individual home owner.
A surcharge should be accessed to the apartment family with children to make up the shortfall and pay their fair share for their children’s education.
Members of the school board should be more attentive to the expenditures and budgets rather than the voices of parents who think it would be good for little Johnny or Sue. You can not spend what you do not have. I would like to see that on a plaque behind the school board seating in the board meeting hall.
Last but not certainly least is our dedicated teachers. They are part of the solution to the middle-of-the-road education curriculum which does not encourage memorizing. Get back to the fundamentals such as the “times tables” is that word is even in use in schools today.
These are points that can no longer be overlooked since the seniors are losing their homes over the amount it is costing for education. Also the end product after 12 years is something which is middle of the road and does not reflect the investment made.
Seniors should pressure your state representatives to act and stand up for what is needed on your behalf and also on the education system.
Richard Penderghest, Bucks County
Join our readers whose generous donations are making it possible for you to read our news coverage. Help keep local journalism alive and our community strong. Donate today.
