I would urge all registered Ellis County voters to sign the petition regarding the Hadley project. The purpose of the petition is to have the project placed on a ballot so all voters have a voice in whether or not to proceed with it.

The county commissioners are recommending a $5 million bond issue to cover the costs, but as Tom Wasinger recently pointed out in this column, that doesn't cover the interest charges and the courthouse remodel.

After attending the 2 p.m. session at the Hadley Center with all interested parties regarding the project, I am totally convinced the actual cost will be closer to $8 million than $5 million. Once again, this does not cover the courthouse remodel.

Do not be misled by the low mill levy increase touted by the bond firm representative. Most taxpayers realize that revenues are generated by the mill levy and total appraised value of all county property.

I've been back in Hays for three years and my property's appraised value has increased two out of those three years with significant increase in my taxes.

One thing is certain; your property taxes will increase! And not by the small amount being expressed by the bond firm.

There are people throughout the county circulating petitions for registered voters to sign. If you are not contacted by one of these people, you can have your voices heard by signing up at the offices located at 1201 Fort, Hays.

Please act now and sign the petition.

Lee Staab

417 E. 19th