Nickel and diming?

The Jefferson-Lewis Board of Realtors voiced its opposition yesterday to the proposal for a one-quarter percent mortgage recording tax to go to the county. (It already collects a one-half percent for the state and one-quarter percent for municipalities.)

County administration estimates the tax, which will probably not begin until July, will bring in $500,000 for the half-year (or $1 million for a full year).

“They’re not taxing other assets like this,” said Patrick J. Henry, president of the board of Realtors. “It seems unfair.”

The spending that the Board of Legislators can designate (not mandated programs or pension or insurance) has seen cuts this year.

For example, the Highway Department will get $1.2 million less under the recommended 2010 budget. But are they enough?

If so, where should the county board look for additional revenue? Is it better to raise the property tax levy than add a new fee or tax?