To the editor:

Homeowners DO notice how the property tax values continue to go up while property sale values go down in a recession. The problem is, the county compares your property to five houses that the computer picks out, not necessarily in the same area, but the same square feet and style. The reason owners do not appeal is because of the cost for an independent appraisal, court and attorney fees, time and stress. All this will probably cost more than the extra taxes.

Homeowners insurance goes up too, not because of the inflated appraisals exactly but of the replacement value. Meanwhile seniors are living on a fixed income with no cost of living adjustment like Congress has. Maybe a class action lawsuit for honest appraisals is necessary.