Apparently, the city of Auburn has had a little communication gap with its citizens. While values of individual properties have increased substantially, so has the value of the tax base as a whole. Auburn’s budget, however, has not increased in the same proportion. Therefore, individual property taxes should not be doubling. In fact, they will only increase if the percentage increase of the individual assessment exceeds the percentage increase of the tax base as a whole. The mill rate should decrease proportionately.

While we all like to see our senior citizens living independently, there does come a time when paying taxes, heating and maintaining too-large homes no longer makes sense. Those on fixed incomes should consider getting a housemate, renting out a room to a local student, obtaining a reverse mortgage or selling and moving to a more sensible alternative, such as congregate housing or an apartment where services and companionship are nearby.

A house is only a house, and stuff is only stuff. Living a comfortable retirement without fear of being able to stay warm and pay the tax man is worth a whole lot more than any of those things.

Seniors, your children don’t want your houses – they only want you to be safe and healthy.

Judith A. Gervais, Lewiston