Wilkes County taxpayers, up in arms about recent property tax assessments that have shot up, are meeting Tuesday night, August 12, to map out a strategy to deal with what they say are inflated assessed property values at a time when property values nationwide are dropping.

"As the economy in general declines and Wilkes County taxpayers receive assessment notices, many are surprised and quite shocked that property valuations have increased so drastically, in some cases doubling or tripling," said Wiley Crittenden, one of the organizers of the Concerned Wilkes County Tax Payers. "Even more concerning is the unclear manner in which the increases were determined and how state mandates supposedly play a part."

Organizers, in an effort to compile and compare information regarding the sharp rise in valuations, are calling for a general meeting sponsored by private citizens on Tuesday, August 12, at the Pope Center at 6 p.m. All are asked to bring a copy of their assessment.

"The purpose of the meeting is to discuss the percentages of increases, the appeal process, and possible options to find a reprieve from this horrendous financial burden placed on those who already pay excessive taxes," said Crittenden.

Appeals must be filed by September 8. Organizers say that those who have appealed thus far have found very little relief, and feel that a group effort may be more effective.

The problem, they say, is that a taxpaying minority is supporting the rest of the county. "In a county where approximately 30 percent of the residents pay over 95 per cent of the taxes, the newest upsurge is viewed as disproportionate and grossly unfair," Crittenden said. "There is usually more than one solution to a problem. Our elected officials need to find ways that a majority of the county's citizens can contribute to resolve the county's financial short falls other than to just continue to raise property taxes on the minority already shouldering most of the burden."