Letter: County loses money on taxes

Friday, April 5, 2002 | 9:21 a.m.

This is my very first letter to the editor, but I couldn't resist.

Clark County is wasting so much money I can't believe it. I unknowingly mailed my quarterly property tax payment late. I mailed $508. I now owe $20.32 in penalty fees. I have no problem with paying the late charge. My concern is why did the Clark County Treasurer's Office mail me back my $508? Wouldn't you think that money would have been deposited into an interest-bearing account that benefits Clark County residents, like myself of 30 years.

I called the Treasurer's Office for an explanation. A supervisor was consulted by the person taking my call. The answer was that in 1973 it was decided they would not accept partial payments. Is it just me or is this the craziest thing you have ever heard of? The county could still put a lien on my home if I don't pay the late fees.

This has been going on for almost 30 years. I can't even fathom the monetary figure that the county has lost mailing people back their money with a form letter saying "incorrect amount received."

I know the IRS, doctors, lawyers, credit card companies, etc., don't mail money back to people because it was the incorrect amount. They put it in the bank and draw interest on it, and then assess a late fee.

This seems like very poor money management to me. No wonder our property taxes keep being raised.

MARTHA F. LOONEY