Simon, you are right on the mark. Here in KC, we have seen "gentrification" of older neighborhoods that results in increased business development and city services and economic activity of all kinds. All well and good until the taxing authorities decide it is time to re-assess property values and then the folks that stuck it out through the lean years get hammered. A mechanism must be devised that addresses the need to accurately assess property values in a way that takes into account both enhanced revenue to support needed infrastructure as well as the moral necessity of rewarding and preserving heritage, longevity and stability.

When you find a big kettle of crazy, it's best not to stir it.