TAXES: Who carries the load

After receiving my property tax bill a few days ago I took out my calculator and discovered they had INCREASED 20 percent from year prior. Then I took the No. 3 and divided it into the $1,900-plus increase. The No. 3 represents amount of renters living in this property in city of Hayden.

Next, I drafted and mailed letters to each renter informing them that beginning Jan. 1, 2013, their rent is going UP $50 per month. They were not happy, just as I was not happy to learn of the increase in property taxes. I have no idea if these renters vote nor how they vote, if they do in fact, vote. What I do know though is: When property taxes go up someone must pay for them.

In this case it’s the renters. In other cases it can’t be “passed along.” The homeowner is STUCK. I did, however, explain in my letter to the renters the reason for the increase and I am sure that made each feel much better.

So, the next time another levy or bond or tax measure comes up on the ballot let us ALL remember who it will affect. ALL of us! And remember this when you write out the check: “It’s for the children, and it’s for the policemen, and it’s for the firemen, and it’s for the library.”

That always makes us feel good about voting “yes.” And we all want to feel good, don’t we?

NATHAN PROWER

Bayview