No Variances For Tax Deadbeats

Recently, Councilman Frank Rizzo introduced a bill that would require an applicant for a zoning variance to certify to the Zoning Board that the property owner has either paid its taxes in full or has otherwise agreed to a payment plan with the City.  We believe this is an excellent bill.  Indeed, we believe the bill should be broadened to apply to all types of land-use approvals issued by the City, including other approvals from the Zoning Board, approvals by the Historical Commission, approvals by the Planning Commission and rezonings of property by City Council.  Everyone should pay their taxes, especially those seeking approvals from our City.

The Rules Committee hearing is on Tuesday, February 9, 2010.  Please click here and follow the instructions to  send an email to the members of the Rules Committee and to Councilman Rizzo.

Some but not all members of the Neighborhoods Matter coalition have had sufficient time to approve this petition.  We therefore want to give you the opportunity to voice your support by signing the online petition.

5 Responses to “No Variances For Tax Deadbeats”

  • robstuart:

    Councilman Rizzo’s bill was passed out of the Rules Committee today with amendments consistent with NeighborhoodsMatter suggestions.

  • Marjorie Dugan:

    Great idea.

  • Norma Van Dyke:

    Thank you Councilman Rizzo and thanks to the Rules Committee for forwarding this appropriate legislation.

  • Sheila Brown:

    Councilman Rizzo’s bill for “No Variances for Tax Deadbeats” should definitely be passed and
    made law. It is time that the deadbeats start paying taxes as required by law, as we law abiding
    citizens take as our civic duty!!!!!

  • Richard L. Ullman:

    A much overdue reform that I am glad to support!

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