LETTERS: JACKSON COLLECTOR ISSUE

To the editor:

On April 2 the citizens of Jackson will be asked to vote on a proposal concerning the elected office of the city collector. In an effort to keep up with changing times and a rapidly growing community, the Jackson Board of Aldermen is asking citizens to consider a proposal making the city collector's position an appointed position instead of an elected one. This would not eliminate the collector's office. The proposal, as it will appear on the ballot, is as follows:

"Shall the Board of Aldermen of the City of Jackson, Missouri, provide for the appointment of a city collector."

Passage of this proposal would allow the city to enter into a contract with the county collector for the collection of taxes. This change could save the city approximately $2,500 each year in postage and printed materials. Another benefit would be reflected in less delinquency on the tax rolls. A paid county personal property tax receipt is required to renew vehicle licenses. If city taxes were listed on the county tax bills, they would have to be paid also. Our delinquent personal property taxes total about $12,000 at the present time.

Also, employees necessary to perform the duties in the collector's office would become part of the city staff. This is not possible under the present system, since the elected collector is required by law to personally employ his or her own staff and compensate them accordingly.

I would like to emphasize that passage of this proposal would not affect the billing or collecting of utility accounts. The citizens of Jackson would continue to receive the same friendly and efficient service they have enjoyed in the past.

If accepted by the voters, the proposed change would not take effect until May 1997. At this time, I will have completed my third term of office. Having worked most of the past 24 years in the collector's office, I feel that it is time to make some necessary changes if we are to meet the growing needs of our citizens.

Remember to vote April 2. If you have any questions concerning this proposed change, feel free to contact my office at 243-4404.

BEVERLY L. NELSON

City Collector

Jackson