Hybrids a luxury we can't afford

Mulder's Maruders are at it again, this time buying four hybrid Prius vehicles at a cost of $85,000. Village Manager Bill Dixon is quoted as saying each hybrid will save the village about $600 per year in fuel costs. So, in 35 years or so, the cars will have paid for themselves, unless, of course, they need new batteries from time to time at a cost of $20,000 during those 35 years we have to assume the village keeps them.

Trustee Helen Jensen says, "We owe this to our citizens." Wrongo, Mrs. Jensen, you owe the citizens of this village an apology for voting to spend OUR money for these cars; It is not YOUR money to do with as you please.

At this time when the residents are already overburdened with constant tax increases, higher food and merchandise costs, the village president and trustees who voted for this outrageous expenditure should be tarred and feathered.

Sheila F. Baker

Arlington Heights