WHY it’s so expensive to live in ithaca

THE GROWING BURDEN OF HOUSING COSTS

Rents in Ithaca are too high. The cost of owning a home is too high. And one of the biggest reasons is that our property taxes are too high, and still climbing.

A LOCAL FAMILY’S REALITY CHECK

A couple in the 5th Ward owns a modest 1,100-square-foot home. It’s assessed at $450,000, and their annual property taxes are over $14,000. They’re now looking at homes in other states because they can’t afford to live here anymore.

A STARK COMPARISON

In parts of Colorado, similar homes are taxed between $1,200 and $2,000 a year. These are nice neighborhoods, safe streets, good schools, strong public services. Clearly, we’re doing something wrong.

MAKING SMART MANAGEMENT A PRIORITY

My goal is to work with the mayor and other members of the Common Council to make cost-effective management a real priority. I’m not suggesting we cut programs or lay off staff. I’m saying we need to manage smarter.

LISTENING TO THOSE WHO KNOW BEST

Every city employee I’ve spoken with has ideas for how the city could save money, but they say no one listens. I believe them. In my experience running businesses, the people doing the day-to-day work often know where inefficiencies are and how to fix them.

A CALL FOR PRACTICAL CHANGE

It’s time we listen to them. Let’s use their knowledge and experience to make city government more efficient, more responsive, and more affordable for everyone. Together, we can make Ithaca a place where people don’t have to choose between staying and making ends meet.

Respectfully,

Gepe Zurenda