LETTERS: TAXES ON HOME GO THROUGH THE ROOF

To the editor:

This is a letter I sent Nov. 24 to the tax collector:

"Dear Sir,

"On May 7, 1995, my wife and I purchased a home on Saddleridge Lane in Cape Girardeau. In 1995 we paid $1,418 in property taxes.

"In 1996, we paid $1,889 in property taxes. I have just received my property tax bill for 1997, and it is $2,567.

"The increase in property taxes from 1995 to 1996 was a huge increase of 33.12 percent. This increase of more than one-third is now followed by another increase of 36.47 percent.

"At this rate, the property taxes will double in less than three years. As a matter of fact, the property taxes will double in two years, four months.

"In just two years time my taxes have risen 81.66 percent.

"These rates defy reason and have become confiscation.

"I want to appeal and request a public hearing."

Here is another letter I sent Dec. 8:

"Dear Tax Collector,

"Why did you return my letter? Why can't you respond to my concerns?"

RICHARD LAMONTE McCLARNEY

Cape Girardeau