Taxpayers, show your indignation

I just received my second installment property tax bill. Considering the economic climate, I expected it to stay the same or increase slightly. Even though my assessed value supposedly decreased, my tax bill increased over $1,000. How, you say? The county knows how to play with the numbers so your bill will never decrease.

According to the county, the value of my house increased by nearly $120,000 a 50 percent increase over last year. I don't know anyone in the real world whose house has increased in value let alone by more than 50 percent. Because the county decided my house is worth this amount, they multiply the value by a higher equalization factor, and that accounts for stunning increase.

I guess they thought I would be too stupid to check last year's bill for the old property value. I don't know about you, but I am fed up with the tax burden falling on middle class homeowners. With the increase in the county sales tax, higher taxes on some foods and bottled water (hello, Mayor Daley), increased parking fees, fees from red light cameras, increased vehicle license fees, etc., things are out of control. I intend to call the assessor's office and ask for an explanation and I suggest everyone do the same. The number is (312) 443-7550. Dig out your bill and do the math. You will be angry, too.

Paul Szorc

Palatine