GAINES GAZETTE

November 2023

November Board Actions

During the November Board meeting, we discussed property tax program matters, including petitions for reassessment of the 2023 unitary value and state-assessed property Board roll changes. We also received operational updates from the Executive Director, Taxpayers’ Rights Advocate Office, Property Tax Department Deputy Director, and Legislative, Research & Statistics Division Chief.

Finally, we discussed various Board Member matters and initiatives, including continued discussion on the proposed 2024 Board Meeting Workload Plan, and possible governance policy updates and action.

We are honored as a Board to meet our constitutional duties and remain committed to our mission to serve Californians through fair, effective, and efficient tax administration in support of state and local governments.

More Than $10 Billion a Year in

Higher Taxes & Fees Approved in 2023

According to the nonpartisan California Tax Foundation, lawmakers and the governor approved more than $10 billion in higher taxes and fees during the first year of the 2023-24 legislative session. 

The nonprofit foundation’s Tax and Fee Report tallied 93 proposals with higher taxes or fees, including 46 that became law. Of the 46 new laws that include taxes or fees, the 17 that can be quantified represent $10.42 billion in new costs to taxpayers. The 29 measures with unknown costs also will add to the tax and fee burden in the state.

It seems to me that with staggering inflation leaving hardworking families barely scraping by, we should be providing some relief. Instead, we’re piling on new taxes and fees and increasing the cost of living for already overtaxed Californians. We’re going to reach a point in the very near future where this state will no longer be affordable for future generations.

Founded in 1980 by the California Taxpayers Association, the California Tax Foundation is a 501(c)3 not-for-profit organization that seeks to improve public policy through thoughtful and independent nonpartisan research.

Celebrating Veterans Around the First District

I spent Veteran’s Day morning with some incredible El Dorado County veterans, including VFW Commander Leonard “Mac” McAdams, who was drafted to fight in Vietnam in 1968. I love listening to their stories of bravery and heroism. We owe them so much. The best way to repay them is with our endless gratitude and appreciation. Be sure to thank a veteran!

I attended William Jessup University's Veteran’s Day chapel service, led by Army Chaplain Des Nelson. He delivered a powerful message of love, honor and respect for America’s veterans and the tremendous sacrifices they have made to keep us safe and free. God bless our veterans and God bless America.

Property Tax Postponement Program

Applications Now Available!

Applications for the 2023-24 tax year are now available for the State Controller’s Property Tax Postponement Program, which allows homeowners who are seniors, blind, or have a disability to defer current-year property taxes on their principal residence if they meet certain criteria including 40 percent equity in the home and an annual household income of $51,762 or less.

For more information, please visit my Resources page.

Proposition 19 Update

The BOE recently issued a Letter to Assessors regarding technical cleanup to Proposition 19 change in ownership exclusions. Check it out! For all the latest information and updates on Proposition 19 visit the BOE website.

As a Board Member, my number one priority is to advocate for taxpayers. I believe hardworking Californians deserve to have someone working on their behalf to streamline and promote efficiency in state government. Should you need assistance with tax-related problems or have questions, visit my website for information on how to contact my office or email me directly anytime.

Monthly Board Meeting: December 12-13, 2023

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