I am writing in regard to the July 23 article entitled "Alexandria Bay to raise Redwood water rates."

I have a few questions. Why is it fair that Redwood residents should have to subsidize the village water system? How is it just and fair that Redwood residents be subjected to a 50 percent tax increase?

Trustee Brent Sweet stated that the increase in Redwood water taxes will help with Alexandria Bay's budget, that "it will help our situation." Why should Redwood residents be punished for a financial situation that we did not create? Why should Redwood residents have to incur a 50 percent tax increase to help pay for village services?

I wonder how Alexandria Bay got into its financial situation. Could it be that they are too frightened to raise taxes on people who can actually vote them out of office? In the Times article, Alexandria Bay Mayor Terry Robb was quoted as saying, "The village expects to adjust the Redwood water rates annually from now on."

I have a difficult time believing that this stunt is legal. We are being unfairly taxed by a village board that does not represent the hamlet of Redwood. If we allow this to transpire without a fight, our water rates will skyrocket out of control. Mayor Robb's comments are proof of this. He has said that "we will adjust the water rates every year."

Why not, Redwood residents have no voice in Alexandria Bay politics. Mayor Robb clearly stated that Alexandria Bay rates would stay the same. Way to keep the constituents happy, Mayor Robb.

I am profoundly disappointed with the town supervisor and town of Alexandria board. What gives the town supervisor and board the right to abdicate its responsibility to the residents of Redwood by making such a deal with the village? Redwood residents should not be paying higher water rates just to help Alexandria Bay out of its financial woes.

Redwood residents deserve better than this. There is no clear rationale for the tax increase on our water. This is totally unjust and unfair. Mayor Robb stated that we would have to accept the tax increase. I for one do not accept nor do I recognize the Alexandria Bay village board's authority to raise my taxes. Mayor Robb and board of trustees have made one thing perfectly clear — they do not represent the people of Redwood.

Steven M. Hunter

Redwood