GAINES GAZETTE

August 2022

2022 Taxpayers' Bill of Rights Hearing

On August 30, the BOE held its annual Taxpayers’ Bill of Rights Hearing. Taxpayers, assessors, and other stakeholders were invited to provide comments on BOE-administered programs, property tax issues, and any items discussed in the Taxpayers’ Rights Advocate’s 2020-2021 Annual Report.

During the hearing, we heard from speaker after speaker expressing hopelessness about the threat of losing their home due to Proposition 19. One of the most significant issues deals with Prop. 19’s rule change that affects how parents and grandparents pass down properties through generations. Before Prop. 19, family members could transfer a primary home of any value by gift, sale, or inheritance. The property taxes would remain the same even if the property were left vacant or rented. Prop. 19 abolished a large part of that tax break, leaving people with huge new property tax assessments. Thousands are now scrambling to figure out how to protect their family's biggest asset.

As a BOE Member and taxpayer advocate, I am committed to working with the legislature, county assessors, tax professionals and taxpayers to ensure effective administration of this law. After hearing this testimony, it's clear to me that the law needs to be reformed so taxpayers receive more equitable treatment.

We take taxpayers’ rights seriously at the BOE. Our employees are expected to honor and safeguard your rights every time they interact with you. We welcome all ideas, concerns, and recommendations regarding the programs and laws that we administer. If you have questions or concerns regarding property tax laws, don’t hesitate to contact my office. 

August Board Actions

During the August Board meeting, we approved staff’s request to publish and certify amendments to Property Tax Rules 462.520 & 462.540; received a report on Proposition 19 implementation and outreach from the Taxpayers’ Rights Advocate Office; and heard updates on BOE operations and the Board Member Strategic Plan.

Finally, we convened a Property Tax Abatement Board Work Group to engage stakeholders in meaningful dialogue and to exchange ideas about utilizing property tax abatements to spur the development of affordable housing in California. Stakeholders provided testimony, discussed best practices, and shared strategies to incentivize development and address housing needs in California.

In the News

Check out my latest opinion piece on the intersection of cross-class friendships, upward economic mobility, and church.

Looking for Upward Economic Mobility? Make Friends at Church

By Ted Gaines

The Union

August 26, 2022

Around the First District

I spoke at a press conference in opposition to Senate Bill 262 – a dangerous bill that would create a “Zero Bail” system in California. Citizens are being victimized day after day by the same predators. We need a system of consequences, where criminals know that they will be punished upon conviction. No-cash bail is the start of a no-accountability justice system. If we don't have safe neighborhoods, schools, and businesses, we don't have a civil society. Videos of wild crime tell a story of a California out of control with criminals emboldened as never before. It has to stop.

My wife Beth and I were proud to join the Placer County Board of Supervisors in recognizing and honoring Congressman Tom McClintock for his 14 years of dedicated service to the people of Placer County. Due to redistricting, he will no longer represent the area, but his many contributions will not be forgotten! 

California Assessors' Association Conference

It was my pleasure to attend and speak at the 2022 Northern California Assessors’ Association Regional Conference. The meeting provided participants with necessary tools to improve effectiveness, sharpen organizational intelligence, and operate as successful county assessors. The program covered a variety of interesting topics from assessment appeals to Proposition 19.

It was great to interact with the assessors and other property tax stakeholders from my district and around the state. I look forward to our continued work together to better serve California taxpayers!

Board Member Gaines with Nevada County Assessor Sue Horne

Board Member Gaines with San Joaquin County Assessor/Recorder/County Clerk Steve Bestolarides

Board Member Gaines with Shasta County Assessor/Recorder and President of the California Assessors' Association, Leslie Morgan

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: September 27-28, 2022

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