In a quandary.
 

I'm not sure if I like Michelle Kwan.

:D

My municipality is trying to increase income tax from 2% to 2.25% Nov 2nd.

The mayor keeps shooting his mouth off, threatening, 'we'll become a broken window community', 'all the wealthy folks'll move out'...

Now he says they'll lay off well over a third, almost half, of the city employees.

My problem: I understand tax revenues are down, because we're not making as much money. This piece of work has done a few good things for the city, generally intersection improvements mostly paid with state or federal funds.

But the roads were already bad, and before the last tax hike he cut brush pickup - and didn't reinstate it. (and he has the balls to say we HAVE brush pickup, because if we cut them to 3' and bundle them the garbage pickup guys - which we pay $15 a month for - will take it).

Alone it seems pretty straightforward. But every municipality that touches our borders has nice roads, brush pickup, and more, and they are pretty similar to us in makeup. They are not asking for more money.

Truth I'm leaning against it. I want two things: an account of why we're not doing as well as our neighbors, and temporary, because when things get better they sure as all hell won't give it back.

Still not certain though, any thoughts?

Pete

Because most money moves to the suburbs? They have a newer infrastructure. The people living in the suburbs take advantage of some of what the city has to offer without having to pay for it. They pay sales tax in the city but property tax to their community. An increase in sales tax increases the portion that the suburbanites pay for having access to the city. Just some random thoughts.

Regards,

D-Ray

P.S. You mean Michelle Kwan the skater rather than Michelle Malkin, the hateful broadcaster?

I get'cha D, but I'm afraid I'm not being clear. I live in a largely newer suburb, and the towns around me are largely newer suburbs. My teenie 30-35 home old development is surrounded by new 3500+ sf monsters. Forget the wife, I covet my neighbors 3 or 4 car attached garage :D

I agree with you though, I'd like to see some things consolidated into larger units.

Pete

PS I've heard Malkins' name before but seriously have never heard her.

they move to the newer suburbs because they can't afford a house as big closer to the city.
Least that is what I have found.

We have the same hassles with the brush pick-up. And believe me, you; If that brush isn't under three feet, those a-holes will just cruise on by and leave it. But I still get the bill right on time.

Do you have to call 24 hours ahead and let them know it'll be out there?

Dave

I don't know Blue, I generate way too much to do that. I either borrow my neighbors truck and take it to the town service garage, or (gasp!) burn it.

Pete

Can't burn it here but fortunately we have enough acreage that I dump it in a wash down back. Wood does not take long to rot out in this climate.

put it in the shed
;)

If it is big enough for the fireplace then it goes in the garage, but that hardly is what I would call brush.

I miss my wood stove and wood shed. :(

still I can't complain