I am writing today as a deeply concerned homeowner and taxpayer in Monroe County. Just this week, I received my 2025 real estate tax bill, and once again, I am left frustrated and bewildered by the relentless rise in property taxes. My house was reassessed this year, and as a result, my taxes have gone up by $450—an increase of 10.7% over last year’s bill. It’s even more disturbing when I look back and realize that last year, my property taxes jumped by more than $1,000. This is simply unsustainable for middle-class families and hardworking individuals who are trying to make ends meet in our community.

The situation becomes even more alarming when we consider Monroe County’s tax trajectory. This year alone, the county tax is up 16.7%. These steep increases are not just numbers on a bill - they represent real dollars being taken out of the pockets of local residents. Every year, it seems we are asked to pay more, with little evidence that our money is being spent efficiently or responsibly.

Against this backdrop of rising taxes, I am troubled by the county government’s ongoing consideration of a new $40 million Consolidated Government Building. I understand the need for functional and safe public facilities, but at what cost? Our elected officials must remember that government buildings are built and maintained with taxpayer dollars. It is not the government’s job to have the fanciest, most beautiful buildings in town, especially when those expenditures are coming at a time when families are already struggling with escalating property tax bills.

We need to ask ourselves: Is it truly necessary to spend $40 million on a new government building when existing facilities could be renovated, repurposed, or better utilized? Shouldn’t our officials be seeking every opportunity to trim waste, downsize government operations, and focus on efficiency before asking residents to shoulder yet another financial burden? The ongoing trend of ever-rising taxes and grandiose government projects has to stop. Enough is enough.

I urge my fellow Monroe County residents to take action. If you are feeling the pinch of these tax increases—and I know many of you are—make your voices heard. Call your County Board Supervisor and let them know you do not support another extravagant government building project. Demand that your elected representatives prioritize fiscal responsibility and explore alternatives that do not involve more spending and higher taxes.

It is time for local government to downsize and become more efficient. The money saved could be put toward essential services, infrastructure improvements, and even tax relief for homeowners who are struggling with the growing cost of living. We deserve a government that is responsive to our needs, not one that prioritizes its own comfort and image over the well-being of its citizens.

Let’s work together to hold our government accountable. Say “no” to unnecessary spending and “yes” to responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars.