Letter to Transylvania GOP

Dear Transylvania County GOP,

In today’s political climate, it is rare to find common ground between Democrats and Republicans. Yet today, we are united by two pressing issues: the inequitable property tax assessments recently calculated by the County, and the growing need for affordable housing for all Transylvanians.

In a recent post on your social media you raised concerns about the sharp increase in tax-assessed property values, particularly in the Rosenwald community. The Democratic Party shares these concerns—not just for Rosenwald, but for working families across the County. Rapid increases in assessed property values disproportionately impacts low-income residents and minority communities. Numerous studies confirm this pattern, including a recent one in neighboring Buncombe County that underscores the relevance of this issue here at home.

That is why, in February, as homeowners began receiving their updated assessments, the Democratic Party worked to share resources and information on how to challenge these valuations. We are encouraged to see that you, too, recognize the harm these inequitable assessments can cause, and we welcome your voice in raising awareness and demanding accountability from the County. Together, we must advocate for a more fair and equitable tax assessment system that serves all residents of Transylvania County.

We are pleased that you are joining the effort to address this critical issue. Affordable housing affects all Transylvanians—regardless of how long they have lived here—and it will take collaboration and determination from all of us to find lasting solutions.

We look forward to working together on these important issues. United, we can continue building a stronger, more equitable Transylvania—Together for Transylvania!

Best,

Peter Offen, Chair

Transylvania County Democratic Party