Help us save Highland Nursery!
The property tax assessment, payable this year, was raised
1275% on two of our Albion lots.
No mistake, the rest of the property will also be raised. Our treasured green space does not justify “best use” of the land according to the Ramsey County Assessor’s Office (RCTAO).
As of March 10, 2009, I settled with the county for an
800% tax increase on the two Albion lots, but they will raise our assessment an additional 50% this year and another 25% next year…plus 33% on the total area!
All property owners are hurting with increased property taxes and fees. Forepaugh's had to close their doors after 25 years; citing property taxes as one of the reasons for their demise. I would like keep Highland Nursery open, but the sales do not justify
“Best use of the land!”
Highland Nursery will be okay for the 2009 season, 2010 will determine our future here. This is to inform you why we might not be able to survive Ramsey County’s unbearable taxes.
A bit of background:
Although we are one business Highland Nursery pays the property taxes for 10 average businesses; due to our needed land size.
The proposed future Estimated Market Value rate will increase to $25.00/sq ft. of the entire Highland Nursery property. Source-Commercial Property Appraiser for Ramsey County.
This contested property
• Was already assessed at 3x the purchase price, in 2002, of a twin lot across the street, 30ft away.
• New value, almost 400% more than similar lots on West 7th Street, and nearby streets.
• Is scheduled to an additional 37% increase in 2009. (On top of the 1275% from 2008).
• Needs a fair, permanent or semi-permanent compromise reflecting the true fair market value for the entire property; not the offered one-year compromise from the RCTAO.
Contact your representative.
Millions of dollars locally are being spent to preserve green spaces* , to fund areas just like we provide. Like Mears and Como Park, Lake Harriet Gardens, and the arboretum, I hope our value to the community, near and far, is more than the “best (financial) use”.
What is going to happen to our community when all West 7th Street business are taxed at the proposed rate set by The Ramsey County Tax Assessors Office of $25.00/sq ft?
-Sue Hustings, President