To the editor:

Thank you for the information provided in the Sunday Journal-World concerning the budgeting and financial operations of the Lawrence and Douglas County commissions. It’s difficult to accept automatic property tax increases based on market-driven real estate value increases which may never be realized, and the attempt to explain the process is appreciated.

What seems lacking from public officials is the motivation to affirm a consent from property owners. The focus on public health during the current pandemic limited the consequences. A similar focus is being generated around climate change and sustainability.

Looking elsewhere, other than property owners, for increased revenue to support the public budgeting process may also prove to be a popular path. The profiteers are not the property owners. The finance, insurance and real estate institutions involved in these transactions are, but property owners are carrying the burden.

Tom Guba,

Lawrence