As a property owner, I understand the value of public education. It’s the cornerstone of a strong society and a healthy democracy. But I also believe the way we fund our schools — almost entirely through property taxes — is outdated and unfair.

Right now, only those who own property pay school taxes directly. Renters contribute indirectly through their landlords, but people living in RVs, boats or with family often contribute nothing at all. Meanwhile, property owners shoulder the weight of education funding, regardless of whether they have children in school — or even have children at all.

What’s worse is that property taxes don’t reflect a person’s ability to pay. A retiree on a fixed income with a modest home can pay just as much in school tax as a working couple with no kids living next door. And when housing prices rise, so do taxes — even if income doesn’t.

It’s time to spread the responsibility more fairly. A school payroll tax, or at least greater use of state income or sales taxes, could help ensure everyone contributes — not just landowners. After all, education benefits society as a whole: safer communities, higher wages and lower crime. Everyone should help pay for that.

James McGuire
Waldoboro