BIDDEFORD – Several dozen residents responded to the city’s invitation to pay more than they owe in property taxes.

By Wednesday’s tax-payment deadline, 44 residents and businesses had contributed nearly $2,500 to the school system and various city organizations.

It wasn’t an overwhelming response, considering that 9,000 tax bills were mailed last month with a letter of explanation.

Only a handful of residents sent in profane or sarcastic notes, Ligarde said. One was a $10 check earmarked for the “retirement fund” of one of the city councilors who promoted the idea.