I just returned from the Orange County tea party in Hillsborough. I estimate the crowd at 250. A broad cross section turned out, from families with kids in strollers, to baby-boomers and seniors. Folks lined the sidewalk next to the Orange County courthouse and held signs encouraging drivers to honk if they think they’re over-taxed. Consequently, it was a very noisy place.
Other signs expressed the mood and theme of the event:
More Personal Responsibility, Less Government
Capitalist
I’m Only 6 and Already in Debt $36K
Free Markets, Not Free Loaders
If You’re Not Outraged, You’re Not Paying Taxes
Orange County is a hotbed of controversy over the sky-high property tax rate — at 99.8 cents it’s the second highest in the state — and the recent revaluation that has left some property owners shocked at their likely tax bill. Residents are still waiting to find out if the county commission will lower the rate to the so-called “revenue neutral” position. But “revenue-neutral” may not be what you think it is.
