This letter is in regard to an article in the Sept. 16 Albert Lea Tribune about the Freeborn County commissioners considering an almost 4 percent tax levy increase for 2015.

I do dope that the commissioners decide not to vote for this increase. The increase is an 11 percent tax increase on tillable agriculture land versus an only 1 percent increase on residential homestead and commercial businesses. It does not seem fair that farmers pay more than half of the taxes in Freeborn County. The price of corn and soybeans presently is so low it does not pay the cost of putting a crop in the ground and harvesting it.

Perhaps the budget can be more closely scrutinized for possible ways to save money in areas that can be allocated to other areas. The article mentioned roads and employees and I do know that good roads are needed just as good employees are valued. However, it does not seem fair that farmers should pay such an enormous tax increase while others pay a very small tax increase.

I do hope that the county commissioners will seriously reconsider the proposed tax increase for 2015.

 

Kay Marschalk

Alden