Yes. There are two ways to provide property tax relief. One is to give special interest groups exemptions (homestead exemption, appraisal cap, senior exemption, etc.) The other is to simply lower the tax rate. Lowering the tax rate is more beneficial to the economy than playing special interest politics.
Too many Freepers identify themselves in one of the favored special interest groups in this battle -- long-time existing homeowners. They want to expand the favorable treatment that benefits them (homestead exemptions and appraisal caps). I say lower the rate and quit playing special interest politics.
I agree - but only in that order. Lower the rates first, then folks might lower their shields (exemptions). But to lower their shields, they have to trust government to tax and spend repsonsibly.