If we give this exemption, then all of the other people not in this category will have to make it up. They do not recommend because there are not many subquality housing units. The other not recommended is the Small Commercial Exemption. They do not recommend this because the tax savings go to the property owners, rather then the owners of the business. Roger Calarese, Franklin resident, commented that maintaining a single tax rate is an inducement for people to come here.
Many tenants commonly ask about the tax rate.
Would like to see single tax rate continued. Ms. Griffin noted that this year, through taxation, the plan is to raise 1.1 million for vacancy exemptions. Explanation given that the state does require a certain amount and that this is not exceptionally high. This is for potential liability for residential property more then business. Ms. Griffin further noted that she did obtain from the administration a five year history of what has been used for abatements and exemptions.