Issue Advisory: Split Roll

A public interest group called EVOLVE is traveling around the state to promote support for a split roll for property taxes. EVOLVE is obtaining resolutions in support of split roll from local city councils and school boards. Most telling is that the staff reports from local government or quasi-governmental agencies (school boards) emphasize that implementing split roll means that Prop 13 must be modified. EVOLVE has yet to appear in San Mateo County.

Under a split roll system of taxation, different types of properties could be assessed at a higher property tax rate than others, depending on their use. And that use taxed at a higher rate is typically proposed to be commercial property. This can pit homeowners against business property owners.

C.A.R. currently opposes a split roll for property taxes, however a REALTOR® task force is currently reviewing this issue.

REALTORS®, brokers and managers should be prepared to respond IF this matter gains traction.