THE EDITOR, Sir;
I ENJOY paying taxes. This is one of my few remaining vices. It gives me a masochistic delight. I am an unapologetic taxoholic.
Every year I pay my property taxes in full before April 1. In 2002, when chaos prevailed in respect of this tax, I voluntarily paid the amount for which I was originally assessed instead of the reduced sum. I adjusted it in my payment for 2003.
This year, the licences for my two old cars expired at the end of February, my driver's licence on March 1 and the certificate of fitness for one of the cars on March 2. All fees, duties and taxes in respect of these were fully paid by February 10.
My income tax for 2003 was over-paid and from February, my returns for 2003 and declaration of estimated income for 2004 were signed and returned to my accountants for filing with the Inland Revenue Department. On the basis of my returns, I am due to be refunded tens of thousands of dollars. Only Allah knows when, if ever, I shall receive my refund.
In all my obligations to the state I have played by the rules, cherished the right values and displayed the right attitude. I have used my 'cash to care' by paying my dues. I did not 'run with it'. In short, I have rendered unto Caesar the things that are Caesar's. In addition, I vote at every election. How, then, has Caesar treated his loyal subject?
On December 25 last, I noticed that the street light near the gate of my home was not working. Since December 27, I have made several telephone calls to the Jamaica Public Service Company (JPSCo) and the Kingston and St. Andrew Corporation (KSAC) reporting the matter. I have also written twice to the JPSCo and the Town Clerk of the KSAC. To date the light, which serves about 100 residents directly as well as thousands of persons using the road, has not been repaired. At night it is dark.
Viewed in the light (pun intended) of the wanton neglect, corruption and incompetence in our society the above 'problem' is insignificant. However, it illustrates the contempt, inefficiency and constructive dishonesty (in receiving revenue but not providing service) of our governors.
I am a shafted taxoholic, my corner is dark, property tax for 2004-5 is due on April 1. Normally, I would have paid already. For being so zealous, many think I am a fool. Should I pay now, I would remove all doubt. I think I will be guided by the advice from the commanding heights that the law is not a shackle and 'forget it'.
I am, etc.,
BERESFORD HAY
P.O. Box 1191
Kingston 8
