Kraft calls allegations Boston over-taxed office buildings serious and credible

Mayoral candidate Josh Kraft accused Boston Mayor Michelle Wu of artificially inflating commercial property values, asserting that this practice punishes property owners who apply for tax abatements. He highlighted claims from the Pioneer New England Legal Foundation, which allege that Boston over-valued 39 buildings by $545 million, generating an additional $13. 3 million in property taxes. Kraft stressed the need for Wu to provide evidence to refute these serious allegations, warning that court rulings could force the city to refund hundreds of millions in taxes. Boston’s reliance on property taxes, which fund about 70% of its budget, makes this issue particularly critical.

Wu previously attempted to shift the tax burden from residential to commercial properties but faced legislative setbacks. The Wu campaign responded, suggesting that Kraft's stance indicates a lack of understanding of the financial pressures facing residents. This ongoing conflict reflects broader economic challenges in Boston following the pandemic. As the election approaches, fiscal policies and property tax issues will remain key points of contention.