Originally property taxes were assessed in Oklahoma because real estate was about the only tangible asset available to tax.  And, of course, original assessments were almost nothing compared to now.  Yearly increases are now larger than totals were then.
     Our pioneers surely would have rebelled at property taxes, had they foreseen today's billion-dollar plus totals.  They would have refused a tax that eventually forced people out of their homes.  At least, they would have insisted on stricter limitations and accountability, to protect future generations from the abuse we are now experiencing.  Furthermore, I think they would have specified that the tax must be switched over onto other sources, once the economy grew strong enough to support a changeover.
     Today, property owners are overwhelmed and confused by what is happening.  Others are simply sticking their heads in the sand and ignoring the problem.  However, we must face the reality of our dilemma.  Confusion and complacency are what "tax users" like.  It's easier to take advantage of people who are confused.  Most citizens cannot even identify their property tax problems, much less agree on solutions.  Confusion and complacency are robbing us of our rights and our children's future.  It all brings us back to the old adage, "an organized few can control the disorganized masses." 
     The bottom line is simple;  Our homes will routinely be taxed more and more until "we the people" take time to learn how to stop it.
     Hopefully, in the near future our association will be able to influence our law makers.  There are many ways to get the attention of lawmakers.  But, most important, property owners must organize, so they can have a significant voice in State government.  The only voices our legislators are hearing right now are the voices of the "tax and spend" lobbyist who are working for still more tax money.  Many of these lobbyists are being paid with our tax dollars, to lobby for more tax money.
     We now have over 800 people in Oklahoma attempting to set real estate values.  However, there are so many complexities and inconsistencies the job is futile.  I say let's eliminate this impossible situation and give the control of homes back to the owners.
     As I have written earlier there are taxes on everything in Oklahoma.  Most  people do not realize that more than 50 cents out of every dollar they earn goes to some sort of taxation.  Experts have projected, using current tax growth rates that within twenty years we will be paying about 84 cents out of every dollar to taxation.
     Check this web site often for additional information about property tax unfairness to property owners.