Abolish antiquated property tax system

In regard to the Dec. 14 article "Clifton claims victory on sites," I generally agree with Robert Snider's assessment of the property tax situation in the town of Clifton. I do disagree with his attitude toward property owners on Cranberry Lake. He has said he understands our concerns, but the tax laws are what they are and there is nothing he can do about them.

Property taxes are an anachronism, a remnant of feudal times. Assessment procedures are subject to favoritism and manipulation. The property tax system completely ignores the fact that people, not property, create the demand for services. Until the property tax system is abolished or at least modified, it should be administered with some acknowledgment of what is received by the people who pay the taxes.

Many of the property owners on Cranberry Lake have seasonal camps typically in use only five to six months a year. Consider that these seasonal property owners contribute heavily to the local economy yet:

■ They are not on local Medicaid.

■ They are not on local welfare.

■ They have no children in the local school system.

■ They have no local vote and no control over how their taxes are spent.

■ They can claim no exemptions such as Star.

It seems that Mr. Snider and I are both captives of the same antiquated system, but unfortunately the advantage is his. Until change can be effected we all must do our best to keep public employment at reasonable levels and combat fraud and waste in welfare, Medicaid and government.

Frederick C. Wheeler

New Woodstock