Taxes are often seen as a necessary evil, an unpleasant but necessary part of life; but when they exceed reasonable expectations of what’s equitable, there’s a darker consequence that extends beyond the individual homeowner. This grim consequence is very often overlooked, the rise of gentrification which ultimately leads to displacement of existing residents and a huge cultural shift resulting in less diversity.

Gentrification isn’t easily defined. While we all have our individual perceptions of what it is, the basic parameters include the process by which wealthy individuals/investors move into a neighborhood, often resulting in the displacement of lower-income residents. This can lead to the loss of affordable housing, cultural displacement and uprooting of established communities. The phenomenon is not only a result of economic factors but also deeply intertwined with issues of racism and housing inequality.

When taxes increase, investors are attracted to previously affordable neighborhoods, causing property values and rents to skyrocket. This leaves lower-income residents struggling to keep up, often facing eviction or homelessness and subsequently, leading to a loss of diversity. Additionally, tax foreclosures and increasing tax burdens can force elderly and longer-term homeowners out. This can be seen in Newburgh where high taxes have already transformed the city and displaced many long-time residents.

To combat this, city hall must consider implementing rent control and initiatives like the Actual Value Initiative to protect communities from the negative impacts caused by high taxes. Another measure would include implementing rent control and more affordable housing initiatives. Rent control can help stabilize housing costs and prevent the displacement of long-time residents. The city should be focused on keeping taxes low for homestead parcels to support those who live here. Live-in homeowners, especially those with children are more engaged citizens; they improve their properties, keep the streets safer and cleaner which provides for a more cohesive community.

Solutions such as these are critical to preserving the diversity and affordability of our neighborhoods while protecting residents. If the city continues to neglect the inequity and disproportionality of our current tax structure then we will fundamentally encourage gentrification through neglect. There are options; rally your neighbors, raise your voice and ultimately show up to the polls.