No SPLOST: what to do

Since only about 15-20% of eligible citizens voted in the SPLOST vote, it is hard to say what it means that it failed so badly.
These SPLOSTS are usually arranged to be voted on in an off-year election, meaning few will vote anyway. That leaves those who are to benefit from a SPLOST to usually be able to pass them. That is planned that way.

It didn't even happen this time that way.

Now some are saying well they knew it wouldn't pass due to the recession and even the ones who would benefit from it couldn't carry the vote.
And, furthermore now they have a good excuse to increase our property and school taxes next year and forever thereafter.

It is hard for us to keep up with professional budgeteers and tax raisers (just as many republicans as democrats--more in Fayette)and they will probably find a way to raise the money.

County and City budgets usually go up at least 10% every year, even above what new taxpayers come here, but instead of dropping 10-25% next year you can bet it will still go up 10% or more.

Either by raising millage rates or valuing property falsely, they will get it done.

Want to try and stop them?

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matt.barnes's picture
Submitted by matt.barnes on Wed, 11/04/2009 - 1:35pm.

How do they evaluate property values? I went to inquire about refinancing my house a few weeks ago and the banks computer program evaluated my home at $50,000 more than I paid for it 2 years ago. I guess should be a good thing. I just don't believe its anywhere close to accurate.


Submitted by Bonkers on Wed, 11/04/2009 - 7:46pm.

Houses, for tax purposes, are valued by appraisers on occasion.
Banks also obtain them when you apply for a loan.

I don't know what that computer you mentioned does or if it is actually used for a loan!

I know of no way your home could have increased in value that much in two years!

It is known now that appraisers were rigging values for banks up until 2007-08 by over appraising them. They wanted to make a loan even if the value wasn't there.

I think the law says appraisers are to use what similar homes sell for in the same area. Since few if any are now selling except foreclosures, I don't know what they are using.

G35 Dude's picture
Submitted by G35 Dude on Wed, 11/04/2009 - 8:39pm.

They are appraising based on those foreclosures, while ignoring other sales in the area, causing the values to be so low that buyers can't get a loan. I know as my daughter has tried to purchase a home lately and had 3 fall thorough because of appraisal/bank issues. And under the new laws you have no recourse against the appraisers. So you spend money on appraisals and inspections only to be told that the house that's just like the one next door that sold for $110K 6 months ago, but in better shape, only appraises for $48K today. And you can't ask for a second opinion or any type mediation. So you're out $600 - $800. And this child can't afford it.


Submitted by Bonkers on Thu, 11/05/2009 - 5:39am.

You hardly make sense!
Banks don't want to loan?

If they can't use foreclosure values, and they can't use selling values, what do they use? Bankers themselves used to know what property was worth! Now they are bean counters.

I guess maybe they want to make money on credit cards, fees, and special friends, hun?

matt.barnes's picture
Submitted by matt.barnes on Wed, 11/04/2009 - 9:14pm.

Eveything is upside down right now. Since I bought my two years ago, my neighbor bought the house across the street for $300,000 and the neighbor next to me bought their house for $175,000 (foreclosure).


Submitted by Bonkers on Thu, 11/05/2009 - 5:48am.

Where do you live, South Atlanta?

matt.barnes's picture
Submitted by matt.barnes on Thu, 11/05/2009 - 9:55am.

I live in the Flat Creek area.


Submitted by Bonkers on Thu, 11/05/2009 - 1:43pm.

Near the hospital, I assume.

Did you keep out the old folks homes there? Might have helped by now.

matt.barnes's picture
Submitted by matt.barnes on Thu, 11/05/2009 - 2:00pm.

Wrong Flat Creek. I live near Flat Creek Trail in PTC. In Gulfview.


Submitted by PTCGOIL on Thu, 11/05/2009 - 3:14pm.

Is gulfview anywhere near oceanview?

matt.barnes's picture
Submitted by matt.barnes on Thu, 11/05/2009 - 3:22pm.

I don't think so.


Submitted by MYTMITE on Thu, 11/05/2009 - 2:08pm.

information about yourself. Even tho' it may seem unimportant at the time, there has been at least one incident where someone gathered much personal information from another blogger over time. Each time seemed harmless but when she got enough info together she contacted his employer and he lost job, insurance, etc. Now I do not think you have to worry about Bonkers, he would probably just come by and pester you to death--he or one of his 'others', but there may be other lurking who would do you harm because they do not share your views. Just a word to the wise.

Submitted by Bonkers on Thu, 11/05/2009 - 3:34pm.

Keep all info "close to the vest" just like bankers and developers do!

Try to outsmart someone.

No I wouldn't cause a job loss.

Submitted by MYTMITE on Thu, 11/05/2009 - 4:13pm.

I have never seen anyone go off a subject like you do. What have bankers and developers got to do with someone on here using Matt's info to his detriment? I would say you were a complete a-- but there is nothing complete about you.including your thought process. Doesn't your little wifey have some chores for you to do to keep you occupied?

matt.barnes's picture
Submitted by matt.barnes on Thu, 11/05/2009 - 2:25pm.

Thanks for looking out. I also take internet security seriously.


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