He gave the example that if Bethlehem did not claim any obsolescence on its original tax return but then claimed it on the amended form, it would be grounds to deny the request. But if only the numbers changed, then the claim could be justified, he said. In the event that the county or the state denies Bethlehem's reduction affecting this year's tax return, Bethlehem would still be free to claim the deduction on next year's return. Webb said if Bethlehem is granted all or part of its deduction, local taxing units would likely experience a budget shortfall next year, but then would be able to make up for it through an increase in the local tax rates payable in 2001. Webb noted that Indiana's tax system is like a shell game, and that if one big taxpayer, like Bethlehem, gets a reduction in its assessed valuation, the difference is borne by other taxpayers.
Every winner creates a whole bunch of losers.
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