Dear Editor, Last week, I wrapped up my series of pre-session town hall meetings around Johnson County. I enjoy holding these town hall meetings throughout the year to get a chance to hear the concerns of the community as a whole, as well as speak to individuals personally. Discussions at the meetings revolved around major issues, such as property taxes, mortgage foreclosures and education. Concerns about Gov. Daniels' proposed property tax plan were shared at each meeting. The plan has been the focus of much discussion in local and statewide media, and many have found things they like and dislike about the proposed plan-including me. Still, the positive aspect is that a proposal is now on the table, and work can begin to sort out what is feasible and what will be best for all taxpayers. As we move down this path, we all need to keep in mind that this is just the springboard for the eventual property tax reform package the Indiana Legislature will debate in the months ahead. In addition to the governor's plan, the commission on state tax and financing policy has released recommendations, and the Kernan-Shepard commission is expected to release recommendations around Christmas. In the time leading up to session, the governor's plan will undoubtedly be altered. Once session starts, aspects of the plan will see even more changes. However, just having this plan as a reasoned, detailed foundation to build from gives us a head start. Mortgage foreclosure concerns resonated among residents at each of the meetings. Unfortunately, Indiana has consistently ranked near the top of the nation in number of foreclosed homes in the past few years. During the 2007 legislative session, the Legislature passed House Enrolled Act 1753 which requires the Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority to provide free mortgage foreclosure counseling and education to homeowners who have defaulted on or are in danger of defaulting on the mortgage. This program provides counseling that will help homeowners better understand their mortgage payments and prevent foreclosures. It is also important to define the role of the mortgage lenders in these agreements. Lenders can play a vital role to help borrowers avoid foreclosure. While I'm an advocate for consumer responsibility, the predatory practices and deceptive lending habits of some creditors must come to an end. This session, I will be working to require more stringent requirements and regulations for mortgage brokers, thus protecting consumers from bad actors in the industry. If you are in need of mortgage counseling please call 1-877-GET-HOPE (877-438-4673) for the Indiana Housing and Community Authority's assistance program. Another legislative priority this year will be the expansion of our high school curriculum. I would like our high schools to offer multiple diplomas that go beyond the traditional or honors diplomas. Nurses, auto technicians, computer technicians, dental hygienists and many other professions do not require the same math, science and English skills as students seeking admission into four-year degree programs. By offering an education catered to a child's talents we will encourage all of our students to seek post-high school educations. Make no mistake about it: Voters sent a message loud and clear to elected officials on Nov. 6th-property taxes are too high and out of control! We had some interesting conversations at the town hall meetings and had great turnouts-I truly appreciate those who came to the meetings and I look forward to another series in January to discuss issues facing the Legislature at that time.
Sincerely, Woody Burton State Representative House District 58 |
