Because of the current economic crisis and the significant downturn in property values, there should be a moratorium on all property tax revaluations.

The town of Poland is currently performing a property tax revaluation. All properties will be revalued on the basis of comparable home sales made in the past few years. In many cases, especially on waterfront properties, this will result in significantly increased values resulting in the doubling or tripling of property taxes for many homeowners.

There are several flaws in the current property tax system. The new values will not reflect current market values, but will be based on peak market values of a few years ago. At this time and for the foreseeable future, homes will not increase in value and will take much longer to sell because of the current credit crisis.

In just the past few months, values have declined precipitously. Sales of homes have declined up to 30 percent. It has become much more difficult, and in some cases impossible, to obtain a mortgage.

Many homeowners, especially the elderly, may be property-rich yet cash-poor. The increase in property tax, based on evaluations done at peak market values, will force many out of their homes.

The current system of imposing taxes is unfair and inequitable. There should be a moratorium on all revaluations. Voters must elect representatives and senators who will put aside partisanship and provide leadership in reforming the property tax system.

Stan Tetenman, Poland