Why are assessments up in Addison Twp.?

Despite ongoing declines in the value of real estate, Addison Township Assessor Christopher T. Kain, has raised assessments by 7.5 percent on all land and structures in the township.

In the Feb. 26 Daily Herald, a chart showed declines of 16 percent in Addison; 17 percent in Bensenville; 6 percent in Elk Grove Village; 4 percent in Itasca; 16 percent in Villa Park and 4 percent in Wood Dale.

Lombard stayed the same. Last week I received a slick election brochure from the Republican Party. On the front, over a picture of someone with their hand in a wallet, were the words "Had enough?" Well, I've had enough.

Inside the brochure is a picture of Mr. Kain. Running for re-election. Unopposed. Here's how it appears to me. In January or February, Mr. Kain arbitrarily raises assessments in the face of declining values. In April, running unopposed, Mr. Kain seeks re-election. In May, the residents receive their property tax bills, along with an increase of 7.5 percent in addition to the increases of all of the other taxing bodies. What can we do?

Well, first I've written a letter to Mr. Kain expressing my dissatisfaction with the job he is doing on us. Next, in April, I'll be writing in the name of the candidate who was not allowed on the ballot by Mr. Kain's fellow Republican, Pamela Moretti: Brian Guimon. You probably should, too. Inside the brochure mentioned above, is a picture of a hand slipping the wallet out of someone's back pocket. That pocket is on your pants.

Ray Sargent

Wood Dale