If I really was a landowner in the United States, shouldn't I be able to secede from the rest of the country?

Question

It's my land, right? I may "own" the land, but I have to pay propety tax on it for the rest of my life even after the debt to the bank is paid off. Aren't I just paying rent to the government who really owns the land?

Answer 1

From what I remember of American history - only Texas had the right to secede - and only as an entire State.

Your observation is funny. You do own the land, but for the right to help protect that land - you must pay your taxes. How do we mean protection - well, with your local Fire Dept., Police Dept., Water services (unless you have your own well), Electricty (again, unless you are producing your own), etc.

Think of it this way - you can sell it if you don't want it -- and put your money (new property) in the bank. You can pass away and leave it to someone else to do it. Or if you hold a mortgage, you can decide to finish paying it off - or foreclose...

Please think of that house as an investment. Property tends to go up in value most everywhere. (Unless your local banks have redlined your neighborhood.) Instead of giving your money to a landlord and have nothing - you give it to the bank and have a house to sell, borrow against, donate or leave to heirs...

Really not a bad deal when you think of it.

Answer 2

Ahhh....another typical complaint about property taxes and ownership. Yes, of course you own the land. However, taxes are assessed on that land to help pay for assorted public needs and education in the area.

Where you got the notion that you can secede is beyond me.

Perhaps you need to quit reading those Libertarian type websites and publications ?

Answer 3

a water bill is not a tax. it is a cash cow.