Re “In killing ‘Empty Homes Tax’ propaganda, judge strikes blow for honesty” (March 27): The assumption that all non‑primary homeowners can absorb an $8,000-$10,000 annual tax is unfounded. My husband and I, now 87 and 82, worked and saved for decades. We have owned our Scripps Ranch home for 49 years and raised our three children there. In 2008, we purchased a small home on Whidbey Island near Seattle to spend part of the year near family. When we are away, our San Diego home is used by relatives and is far from “vacant.”
We return to San Diego each winter for family, warmth and essential health care. Selling our home, renting it out with all our belongings or paying a punitive tax are not viable options.
In our view, the proposed tax on non‑primary homes conflicts with constitutional protections for property rights and violates the intent of California’s Ellis Act. If enacted, it would almost certainly face costly legal challenges. We would willingly serve as plaintiffs.
Please vote no.
— Diana Browning, Scripps Ranch