The Messy City Podcast - Talking About the Least Bad Tax

For a lot of years, I’ve been a bit loathe to dive deep into the land value tax topic. I’m not entirely sure why that is - it might be that the proponents have a sort of religious zeal for it. LVT seems to be a possible cure-all for all that ails our cities and towns, and I suppose it reminds me of the expansive view of New Urbanism in the early years. As my friend John Anderson used to say, New Urbanism won’t solve tooth decay - it’s just a better way to design and build communities.

This, I suppose, in my Midwestern reluctance to make broad, sweeping statements, is also true of land value tax. It simply seems like a much better way to assess property, and better align the incentives of owners with those who want to see a place improve. It won’t solve world peace, nor will it be a salve for every problem of mankind. But, it does seem pretty darn smart.

Lars Doucet graciously joins me to talk through the basics of land value tax, and also answer some questions from a property tax skeptic (me). Lars has a terrific Substack that dives much deeper, called Progress and Poverty. Check it out.

If I have but one wish through all this, it’s for people to understand your property taxes are a two-part formula. It’s your assessment x your millage levy or levies. One is fairly technical, and the other is very political. Know the difference, and know where to direct your anger should you be upset with your local tax bill. And keep in mind, there might just be a better way to do the assessment.

Find more content on The Messy City on Kevin’s Substack page.

Music notes: all songs by low standards, ca. 2010. Videos here. If you’d like a CD for low standards, message me and you can have one for only $5.

Intro: “Why Be Friends”

Outro: “Fairweather Friend”

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