MK (Yahadut Hatorah) Uri Maklev feels the recently-passed law permitting municipalities to charge double arnona property tax on ghost apartments should be repealed. Jerusalem began doubling property tax for ghost apartments beginning last year, 2016. Maklev feels the ill will and anger resulting from the policy decision does not merit the extra funds generated.

In fact, Maklev feels that ultimately, the anger generated by the new arrangement has a negative impact on the economy. He is referring to the growing number of apartments purchased by foreigners and they remain empty most of the year, with the exception of yomim tovim and vacation. In the hope of discouraging this, Jerusalem has doubled the annual property tax, determining which apartments stand idle by checking water, gas and electricity readings.

Maklev wants the Knesset Law Committee to send the matter back to the Finance Committee in the hope of repealing the law. The current law permits doubling or tripling the arnona of such apartments. Maklev admits he understands the goal is to encourage owners to rent out the apartments, but he feels the overall loss outweighs the gain.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)