To the Editorial Board of AnnArbor.com and the Citizens of Ann
Arbor,

On the night of the 27th of September, 2010 at the League of
Women Voters’ Candidate Forum, I made allegations of potential
real estate tax fraud of which I was personally aware. The
statement came in response to a direct question about what new
ideas I, as a candidate seeking office, had for dealing with the
pending budget deficit. While I answered the question as
truthful and concise as possible in the short time allotted, the
subsequent public confusion such a revelation caused is
understandable. We need answers, especially given that our
Assessors office has so far confirmed the likely presence of tax
discrepancy. It is because of this that I would now like to
offer a few points of clarification on this matter to help
address any questions or concerns that may have come from my
statements.

- While I am aware that taxes may not currently be properly
assessed in certain instances, I am NOT accusing any individual
or organization of fraud. I am not a tax assessor or hold any
authority to investigate tax abuses. Any possible case of
misrepresentation or impropriety should be fairly investigated
by a city commission set up for the purpose. Because of my
expertise, I believe I can make a meaningful contribution to
this effort, regardless of the outcome of the election.  As was
pointed out in AnnArbor.com's coverage, if scofflaws are made to
pay their fair share, honest taxpayers currently paying high
taxes may be able to pay less in the future. That's worth
pursuing in my book.

- I, my associates, and my clients are not to my knowledge
currently party to, or have ever been party to, any instances of
tax fraud or evasion in regards to any real estate transaction.
I have been humbled and honored to be mentored by some of the
most honest, trustworthy men and women in the business. My time
in the industry has been defined by a true dedication to
upholding ethics and virtues of the highest standards. It is
because of my years being shown the law followed properly that I
now have the ability to know when the law is abused. 99% of
those that work in the commercial real estate industry in our
community are hardworking, ethical professionals. It is a shame
that the remaining 1% still find it in their best interest to
profit at our expense. A healthy, fair economy that is free of
such behavior is in everyone’s' best interest. It is for this
reason I feel strongly that bringing this issue to light is
appropriate.

-To this end, I have on multiple occasions over the past few
years attempted to share my knowledge of tax impropriety with
the appropriate individuals and agencies. My hope is that we all
now can solve this problem together.

I appreciate your time and the opportunity to comment further on
this important matter.

And please remember to Vote November 2nd

_______________________________

Newcombe Clark

Ann Arbor City Council Candidate, 5th Ward