I READ with interest Coun Quentin MacDonald warning us of an inflation-busting rise in council tax (August 12).

He bases this on the revaluation of properties and indicates it is due to York seeing above-average house price rises.

But, surely, the value of the relevant bands will have to change, meaning most properties will stay in the same band. If this is not so, will that mean that Band A will relate to something like a garden shed?

The regular annual hikes we have been subject to are horrendous on their own without adding the cost of moving up a band just to enable the council to claw even more money from the already disgusted residents.

Although the office of the Deputy Prime Minister said Coun MacDonald was talking nonsense I believe he had a point when he called for the present system to be scrapped and replaced by a local income tax.

Speaking for many pensioners, I know they are totally despondent where council tax is concerned. I will certainly consider making a protest, together with anyone who wishes to join me, if this next rise is too significant.

Before the annual increase, the Evening Press always features an article from the council informing us that there could be a large increase (perhaps 12 per cent) then when we get the bill and find it is less than predicted (maybe nine per cent) we breathe a sign of relief. I am aware they are hoodwinking us and warn them it will not work for much longer.

Mrs Sylvia Dunn,

Rutland Close,

Copmanthorpe,

York.

Updated: 10:01 Monday, August 29, 2005