Minute with the Mayor

Question:

Why are you [mayor] against the sales tax increase that is on the ballot for our county this year?

Answer:

A quick short answer is that I have always been a fiscal conservative and am against any increase in taxes.  I also know that there are times that taxes must be raised, and I do not think this is a good reason to raise the tax.

To raise taxes that are not guaranteed to be there every year to fund permanent ongoing expenses is not a sound policy to follow.  If the sales tax does not come in next year, do the raises go away, or does it lead to further tax increases each year? When government representatives are elected by the people, it is with the trust that sound policy will dictate funding and expenses of the public’s tax dollars, and my personal opinion is that this is not a wise decision to support.

One thing that I do know is this: any government will raise taxes if they can without the people getting a voice in the increase.  That is why it is never a good thing for citizens to vote to increase taxes.  The result is an increase in the cost of groceries, gas, and other items that will be purchased.

Everyone needs to stand in the ballot box and ask this question: Do I really want to vote for an increase in tax based on the unknown of what the money will be used for, and do I really trust the government at any level?

Never forget the quote from President Ronald Reagan, “The nine most terrifying words in the English language are: I’m from the government, and I’m here to help.”

Be safe out there - finish strong.