Property tax elimination was the key topic of discussion during Thursday night's conference, hosted by Stout Associates Realtors and the Pennsylvania Coalition of Taxpayer Associations at the Inn at Reading.

Sen. David G. Argall (R-Schuylkill/Berks), the prime sponsor of Senate Bill 76 - legislation which aims to completely eliminate the school property tax, and Ron Boltz of the PCTA, were the keynote speakers at the conference.During the conference Argall and Boltz informed attendees about the bill's momentum and its significant impact in helping to provide equitable funding for the state's public school system, while also lifting the burden off local residents who face the risk of losing their homes."The issue of property tax reform is not a new or unfamiliar topic - just ask the many grass-roots organizations that have lobbied behind this effort to eliminate, once and for all, this archaic tax that has plagued citizens and jeopardized the future of homeownership," Argall said."The rising number of Pennsylvanians who have not only voiced their support for property tax elimination, but also shared their personal stories regarding the negative impact this tax has created on their financial well-being, is a clear indication that something needs to be done."Argall said they have doubled the number of supporters in the Senate, and was pleased to share with all those present that, "For the first time ever, Senate Bill 76 will be scheduled for a debate and vote by the full Senate on Tuesday."