Abolishing Property Taxes in New Mexico: A Call for Change

In a thought-provoking tweet, Auntie Barnes advocates for significant changes to the property tax system in New Mexico, suggesting the abolition of most property taxes while proposing a specific tax on Big Box retail properties. This perspective raises essential questions about the impact of large retail establishments on local communities and the overall economic landscape. Here’s a detailed summary of the key points surrounding this proposed reform.

The Case for Abolishing Property Taxes

The primary argument for abolishing most property taxes in New Mexico revolves around the idea of economic relief for residents and businesses. Property taxes can impose a significant financial burden on homeowners and small businesses, particularly in times of economic downturn or instability. By eliminating these taxes, the state could potentially foster a more favorable environment for economic growth, encouraging both individuals and businesses to invest in their properties and communities.

Focus on Big Box Retail Properties

Auntie Barnes emphasizes the unique challenges posed by Big Box retailers, such as Walmart and Target, which often dominate the retail landscape. These large corporations can have a disproportionate impact on local economies, drawing customers away from small businesses and leading to higher infrastructure and policing costs for communities. The rationale for taxing Big Box retail properties is rooted in the belief that they generate more expenses than smaller businesses due to their size and the resources they consume.

Community Costs of Big Box Retail

Big Box retailers can lead to several issues in local communities:

1. Increased Infrastructure Strain: Large retail stores often require significant infrastructure, including roads, parking lots, and utilities. The costs associated with maintaining and upgrading these infrastructures can be substantial, placing an additional financial burden on local governments and taxpayers.
2. Police Resources: The presence of Big Box stores can lead to increased crime rates and safety concerns, requiring more police presence and resources to manage potential issues. This places a further strain on local law enforcement agencies, diverting resources from other community needs.
3. Vacant Properties: When Big Box retailers decide to relocate or close, they often leave behind large, unoccupied buildings. These vacant properties can become eyesores and detract from the aesthetic value of neighborhoods, leading to a decline in property values and community morale.
   

   The Impact on Small Businesses
   

   The dominance of Big Box retailers can have detrimental effects on small businesses. As these large stores offer a wide range of products at lower prices, local shops struggle to compete. This can result in a loss of unique local businesses, which are often the backbone of community identity and culture. By implementing a tax on Big Box retail properties, local governments could potentially level the playing field, allowing small businesses to thrive while addressing the financial burdens imposed by these larger entities.

   Economic Growth and Sustainability
   

   Abolishing most property taxes could lead to increased economic activity. With lower tax burdens, property owners may be more inclined to invest in improvements, renovations, and expansions, ultimately contributing to job creation and economic growth. This could also attract new residents and businesses to the area, further bolstering the local economy.

   Moreover, by creating a tax structure that holds Big Box retailers accountable for the resources they consume and the challenges they present, communities could foster a more sustainable economic environment. This approach promotes a balanced ecosystem where both large and small businesses can coexist and contribute positively to the community.

   The Need for Comprehensive Tax Reform
   

   While the proposal to abolish most property taxes and implement a tax on Big Box retailers presents a compelling argument, it is essential to recognize that this is just one piece of a broader conversation about tax reform in New Mexico. Policymakers must consider various factors, including equity, economic disparities, and the long-term sustainability of local economies.

   A comprehensive tax reform strategy should involve stakeholder engagement, including input from community members, business owners, and local government officials. This collaborative approach will ensure that any changes to the tax system are equitable, effective, and beneficial for all community members.

   Conclusion: A Vision for New Mexico’s Future
   

   The call to abolish property taxes in New Mexico, particularly in relation to Big Box retail properties, highlights a significant concern for many residents. By addressing the unique challenges posed by large retailers while alleviating the financial burden on property owners, the state can create a more balanced and sustainable economic environment.

   As communities continue to evolve, it is crucial to engage in meaningful discussions about tax reform that considers the needs and priorities of all stakeholders. The proposed changes could pave the way for a more vibrant and resilient economy, fostering a sense of community and supporting local businesses.

   In conclusion, the conversation initiated by Auntie Barnes is an important step towards reevaluating the property tax structure in New Mexico. By focusing on the impacts of Big Box retailers and advocating for strategic reforms, the state has the potential to create a more equitable and thriving economic landscape for all its residents.

New Mexico must abolish most property taxes.
There should be a tax on Big Box retail properties, because they cost local communities a lot more money and police resources than any other size of business, leave behind huge disposable buildings when they move.
Otherwise, … pic.twitter.com/sjzbIQcHVl

— Auntie Barnes (@AuntieBarnes) June 18, 2025

New Mexico Must Abolish Most Property Taxes

When it comes to the financial landscape of New Mexico, the conversation around property taxes has been anything but quiet. Many believe that New Mexico must abolish most property taxes to foster a healthier economic environment for its residents. You might be wondering why this is an important topic. Well, let’s dive into the details and explore the implications of such a shift.

The current property tax system in New Mexico can feel overwhelming for residents and businesses alike. Property taxes can weigh heavily on families and small businesses already struggling to make ends meet. Critics argue that these taxes often do more harm than good, stifling growth and discouraging investment in the community. The truth is, if New Mexico can rethink its property tax strategy, it could open the door to fresh opportunities and economic revitalization.

There Should Be a Tax on Big Box Retail Properties

One of the most controversial aspects of this discussion involves Big Box retail properties. The argument here is straightforward: there should be a tax on Big Box retail properties because they cost local communities a lot more money and police resources than any other size of business. Think about it—these massive retail chains often require significant policing, infrastructure maintenance, and emergency services, all of which strain local resources.

Moreover, when these retailers decide to pack up and leave, they often leave behind gigantic, empty buildings that can become eyesores and even safety hazards. This creates a burden on local governments to find new uses for these spaces, often at a significant cost. According to a report from [The Atlantic](https://www.theatlantic.com/business/archive/2017/11/empty-big-box-stores/546874/), many Big Box stores become ghost towns, lingering in communities long after they’ve closed their doors. It’s not just about the immediate economic impact; it’s about the long-term consequences for the community.

By implementing a specific tax on Big Box retailers, local governments could generate revenue that would offset some of these costs. This tax could help fund community projects, public safety, and infrastructure improvements, enabling localities to thrive rather than just survive.

Costly Impacts on Local Communities

The impact of Big Box retailers extends beyond just financial costs. They often disrupt local businesses, making it harder for small shops to compete. Many community members have shared their frustrations about how these large retailers can lure shoppers away from local businesses, which are often the lifeblood of a community.

The shift in shopping habits can lead to a cycle of decline for local establishments. As more shoppers flock to the convenience and pricing of Big Box stores, smaller businesses struggle to keep their doors open. This can lead to job losses, reduced community engagement, and a decline in the overall quality of life for residents.

If New Mexico must abolish most property taxes, why not take the opportunity to create a fairer tax system that supports local businesses instead of undermining them? A tax on Big Box retail properties could help level the playing field for small businesses, allowing them to compete effectively and keep the community vibrant.

The Role of Disposable Buildings

Let’s talk about the “disposable buildings” left behind when Big Box retailers move out. These structures are often large and costly to maintain, and they can sit vacant for years. According to a study by the [Urban Land Institute](https://uli.org), these abandoned properties can lead to decreased property values in the surrounding area, further straining local economies.

When a Big Box retailer leaves, it doesn’t just impact the store’s employees; it affects the entire community. Local governments may find themselves stuck with the bill for demolishing or repurposing these buildings, which can be a significant financial burden.

Imagine a scenario where a local government could use revenue generated from a tax on these properties to transform them into community hubs or parks. Rather than letting these spaces become liabilities, they could be converted into assets that benefit everyone.

Community Voices Matter

Listening to community voices is crucial in this discussion. Residents and local business owners alike have valuable insights into how property taxes and Big Box retailers affect their lives. Engaging with the community can lead to solutions that reflect the unique needs and desires of the population.

For instance, local forums or town hall meetings can provide a platform for residents to express their opinions. Policymakers can benefit from understanding the perspectives of those living in the community. This grassroots approach can lead to a more equitable tax system that prioritizes the needs of local residents over large corporations.

When community members feel heard and involved in the decision-making process, it fosters a sense of ownership and responsibility toward their neighborhoods. This could create a ripple effect, encouraging more people to invest in their local communities, whether through small business ventures or volunteer efforts.

Exploring Alternative Solutions

While abolishing most property taxes may seem like a bold move, it’s essential to explore alternative solutions that would create a more balanced approach. One idea is to implement a tiered tax system, where larger retail properties, like Big Box stores, pay a higher rate than smaller businesses. This could help fund community initiatives without placing an undue burden on small businesses that are already struggling.

Another alternative is to offer tax incentives for businesses that contribute positively to the community. For example, local companies that create jobs, support local charities, or invest in sustainable practices could receive tax breaks. This would not only encourage businesses to invest in their communities but also foster a sense of corporate responsibility.

Additionally, New Mexico could explore innovative financing options like [Opportunity Zones](https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-drop/n-18-48.pdf). These zones are designed to spur economic development in distressed areas through tax incentives. By creating more Opportunity Zones, New Mexico could attract new businesses and investment while still working towards abolishing most property taxes.

The Path Forward

Navigating the complexities of property tax reform in New Mexico will undoubtedly require collaboration and compromise. The goal should be to create a system that supports local communities while ensuring that businesses can thrive.

By acknowledging the unique challenges posed by Big Box retail properties, New Mexico can pave the way for a more sustainable economic landscape. The conversation around property taxes is just one piece of the puzzle, but it’s a crucial one that could define the future of the state.

Let’s keep the dialogue going. If New Mexico must abolish most property taxes, we need to figure out how to do it in a way that empowers communities and ensures that everyone benefits. By taking a comprehensive approach, the state can find a solution that works for everyone—residents, small businesses, and even larger retailers.

In the end, it’s all about balance. If we can strike the right balance between supporting local businesses and managing the costs associated with Big Box retailers, New Mexico could emerge as a shining example of economic resilience and community strength. So, let’s keep pushing for change and advocating for a brighter future for all New Mexicans.