Local taxes could bring tears (5)

I believe the answer is:

rates

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'local taxes' is the definition.
(rates paid to a local authority)

'bring tears' is the wordplay.
'tears' can be anagrammed to 'RATES'.
But, I am not sure how this is indicated.

'could' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for rates that I've seen before include "judges" , "Fees" , "Charges, deserves" , "Former means of local revenue" , "classes" .)

I've seen this clue in The Irish Independent.

Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.