May 12, 2002

I understand the goal of downtown housing. I do not agree with the logic.

Owners of proposed new condos built blocking off the downtown waterfront near Heritage Park and Percival Landing will get great water views, private, gated parking and no property taxes for 10 years.

If a condo sells for $150,000 and the taxes per year are, say, $3,000, that is $30,000 in tax savings per condo. A condo that sells for $200,000 or more would be an even greater tax savings.

Who is paying? The rest of us. Show up May 21 at 7 p.m. for the only public hearing at City Hall, 900 Plum St.

In a country where people can inherit nearly $600,000 without any taxes, I do not think we need any more handouts to the well-off.

Jeff Booth, Olympia