Reader continues thoughts on vacant lots

My previous letter to the editor regarding vacant property apparently got read by more than one person. If I understand the Washington State Constitution correctly, Article VII, Section 1 - Taxation, puts all real estate into a single class. A special tax on vacant property would probably require an amendment to the State Constitution.

What was missed is the commentary regarding personal or property rights being absolute. That is only true when actions do not affect the rights of other people. Property used to store wrecked vehicles, host loud all-night parties, store large amounts of propane, or for many other purposes can affect property values of neighborhoods, or even the whole city. Consider the explosion in West, Texas!

I suggest you search the internet regarding problems caused by vacant property. I suggested a "special tax," but implied it be equal only to the increased risks.

My previous letter to the editor was written to get the attention of vacant property owners. Are they helping the community? Are they creating a fire hazard, or an opportunity for illegal activity? Do they think the economy is going to magically improve such that they will recover their current losses during the remainder of their lifetimes?

All rights depend upon people recognizing their associated responsibilities. Laws get proposed, and passed, only when some people do not think about their responsibilities.

Thomas Fancher

Moses Lake