FT. COLLINS, Colo. -- A Larimer County program giving senior citizens a chance to work off their property taxes is growing in popularity.

The Senior Citizens' Property Tax Work-Off Program began in 1981 with the goal of giving seniors relief from ever-increasing property taxes.

Seniors can earn up to $400 in exchange for working odd jobs in Larimer County, including clerical work at the courthouse or sheriff's office.

Bud Mccracken, 66, worked as an assistant ranger at Carter Lake last year and got a $400 refund on the property taxes he had already paid.

"That program is wonderful," he said. "I got to meet people I wouldn't normally meet. It was fun ... and it really helped financially."

Larimer County officials said it's a win-win situation. The seniors provide much-needed manpower for cash-strapped departments.

In order to qualify, seniors must be at least 60 years old, have a gross monthly income at or below $1,702 (for 1 person) or $2,282 (for 2 people), own property in Larimer County and reside on that property.

Applications will be taken: Monday, Feb. 4, from 1:30-4:30 p.m. and Wednesday, Feb. 6, from 9 a.m.-noon at the Chilson Senior Center in Loveland; Tuesday, Feb. 5, from 9:00 a.m.-noon and Thursday, Feb. 7, from 1:30 p.m.-4:30 p.m. at 1501 Blue Spruce Drive in Fort Collins.

For more information, call the Office On Aging at 970-498-6812.