It was interesting to read the article, “Property values decline in county.” It was even more interesting to read, “but don’t necessarily expect property taxes to go down if the assessed value decreases, then the average tax rate in the county will likely increase.”

I keep hearing how the tax rate in Island County is one of the lowest in the state. However, I believe the assessed values of real estate in Island County are purposely bloated to increase the tax base. Recently a property sold on the west side of the island for $1,543.08 per front foot while the adjacent properties are, Island County-assessed, at $2,958.61 per front foot.

We are talking 100 percent difference; tell me the government is not on the take by escalating property values to satisfy goverment growth while the citizenry suffers through a recession.

Richard Johnson

Coupeville