During a recent government meeting, a resident raised concerns regarding the assessment practices of school districts in Erie County, highlighting the financial burden placed on new homeowners. The speaker criticized the current system, which allows school districts to appeal property assessments, potentially leading to increased taxes for those purchasing new homes in a competitive market.

The resident described the practice as a \"backdoor tax,\" arguing that it unfairly targets new homeowners who are already facing high costs associated with homeownership, such as mortgage payments and insurance. They pointed out that eight out of nine school districts in Erie County are utilizing this appeal process, which they believe contributes to a cycle of financial strain for families.

The speaker called for county officials to address this issue, suggesting a moratorium on the appeal process until a comprehensive assessment can be conducted. They emphasized that the last significant assessment was over a decade ago, and without timely action, new homeowners could face substantial financial impacts.

The resident's comments reflect broader concerns about housing affordability and the need for transparent and fair taxation practices in the region. The meeting concluded with an acknowledgment of the issues raised, though no immediate actions were proposed.