Is this fair?

In 1999, the tax on my house and land was $174.64. It went up a little each year until 2004, when it was $542.04. I feel the value of property was increasing and that was justified.

But everyone knows in 2005 real estate values began to drop. Now in 2009, the tax on my house, which is 10 years older and falling apart, and my land, which is almost worthless, is $752.14. If someone can explain how this is fair, please do so.

Seems to me the utility bills and tax increases are bankrupting the USA.

D.F. Owens

Altoona