A retiree writes to complain that the empty homes tax the City Council is considering would cost him $30,000 annually on his million-dollar condo (“Empty homes tax would ruin some owners lives,” Star-Advertiser, Nov. 25). I would meet him halfway on that; in fact, I would meet him two-thirds, as the proposed 3% tax rate is too high. A 1% tax would be appropriate.
This snowbird should realize just how good he has it now. He doesn’t contribute to the local economy through spending most of the year, doesn’t pay any state income tax and enjoys one of the lowest property tax rates of any metro area in the nation. He should pay the $10,000 extra tax and realize he’s now paying his fair share, or rent out his apartment for six months or longer each year. At a reasonable rental rate, there would be takers.
Jack Ashby
Hawaii Kai
COUNT YOUR BLESSINGS
In the spirit of this season, take a moment to count your blessings. Recent times might’ve been tough — politically, economically or otherwise — but surely there are positives.
Here’s your chance to reflect on what you appreciate. Today through Dec. 9, we’ll be accepting “Count Your Blessings” letters (150 words max) or essays (500-600 words). A collection of these will run in mid-December.
Email to letters@staradvertiser.com; or send to 500 Ala Moana Blvd., Bldg. 2, room 200, Honolulu 96813, c/o Letters.
EXPRESS YOURSELF
The Honolulu Star-Advertiser welcomes all opinions. Want your voice to be heard? Submit a letter to the editor.
>> Write us: We welcome letters up to 150 words, and guest columns of 500-600 words. We reserve the right to edit for clarity and length. Include your name, address and daytime phone number.
>> Mail: Letters to the Editor, Honolulu Star-Advertiser 7 Waterfront Plaza, 500 Ala Moana, Suite #7-500 Honolulu, HI 96813
>> Contact: 529-4831 (phone), letters@staradvertiser.com, staradvertiser.com/editorial/submit-letter
