I suppose you are suggesting that real conservatives would lower the millage rate assessed by school districts and other tax assessors? I did not understand your "broaden the base" alternative.
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.