Paul "The Taxman" Bettencourt (center) was giving hope to tax payers who've become frustrated with alleged unfair property values.
Over 300 Meet to Discuss Property Taxes, ONALASKA, May 23, 2010 - Over 300 frustrated tax payers gathered at the Idlewilde Community Center in Onalaska on the evening of May 21, 2010. The frustration is rooted in the sudden major increases in property taxes, particularly waterfront property on Lake Livingston. Many of the property owners are angry that the value of their property has gone up hundreds of percent and there were even 2 different property owners in attendance who said that their property has gone up over a thousand percent. The audience was addressed by notable figures such as Onalaska Mayor, Lew Vail, Kathi Freeman, Rick Andrews, and the man who showed up vowing to fight (in court if necessary), Tax Attorney, Paul Bettencourt of Houston. Bettencourt is the CEO of Bettencourt Tax Advisers, LLC. Bettencourt spoke for nearly an hour and gave a presentation, and then fielded questions from the audience. Several times during his speech, Bettencourt received spontaneous applause from the audience. At the end of his speech and question period, property owners were lining up seeking his representation. (Be sure to see the video excerpts below).
Paul Bettencourt used a projector during his presentation/speech.
Onalaska Mayor, Lew Vail
Kathi Freeman. Freeman coordinated the 2010 Polk County Tea Party.
Rick Andrews. Andrews is a Realtor, and an outspoken activist about alleged unfair property values in Polk County.
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