South Bay : Legislator’s Help Is a Saving Grace to Church in Tax Woes

A San Pedro church found a saving grace in its congressman, who helped get the IRS to rescind late fees imposed after church computers containing all the tax records were stolen.

First United Methodist Church had been battling with the IRS over fines of more than $600 incurred for filing its 1994 payroll taxes late. But once the church enlisted the help of Rep. Steve Horn (R-Long Beach), the IRS reversed its decision within two weeks.

“I was amazed that it happened so quickly when we asked for help,” said the Rev. J. Bond Johnson, pastor of First United Methodist Church.

Church officials had written several letters to the federal agency. But in late December, Johnson faxed a letter to Horn, who immediately contacted the IRS. Within several days, all penalties were forgiven.