In recent issues of area newspapers I have noticed clip out notes addressed to Mr. Robert Hutcheson, chairman of the DeKalb County Board, which in so many words, criticize “constantly rising property taxes.”

Whether one agrees with this sentiment or not, addressing such to DeKalb County government is incorrect. They, in fact, have little to do with it. Such is mostly the domain of the Illinois legislature, not the county.

Moreover, it has been my experience that all DeKalb County area branches of government treat tax dollars in a very prudent manner.

Finally, before we “roll back” such taxes, we should consider which services we wish to curtail and the ramifications of such. I cannot think of one that is not fairly basic, e.g., health care, public safety, roads, education, judiciary, people’s legal representation, sewer or water (?).

The economic vitality of the DeKalb County area depends on such resources. I feel our local elected officials are to be complimented for assuring these services while prudently managing what little they do control.

Jim Graves

Executive Director

Ben Gordon Mental Health Center