Jim Mork wrote: "Besides, Vicky, you don't really like cities to TAX business, so of what use is it to us if they make money off us? The whole POINT of getting business is to rake off a percentage. And if we try that, you will think it injustice."
[VH} - Not true. Of course businesses should pay their share of taxes, but spending like drunken sailors and then sticking the privately funded businesses with the tab won't work. This strategy just drives the income producers and job creators away, thus increasing the financial burden on those who stay - residents and other businesses. Jim Mork wrote: "You have to understand that it is our intention to develop business in ORDER to tax it and relieve the homeowner. In fact, in the Pioneer Press article on the ranking of property taxes in the metro, it is the presence of taxable business that helps determine how much the residential payer pays. Businesses that want a free ride might as well set up elsewhere." [VH] - We, the City, can't "develop" business. Risk taking is a voluntary act. We, the City, must be an attractive destination for companies. Here is a list of things that honest businesses want (and need.) Note that handouts of public money are not on the list. 1. Clean, safe streets. 2. Good schools - to attract good employees. 3. Skilled workforce - for obvious reasons, primarily success. 4. Consumers (clients) with discretionary income. 5. Low (at least competitive) taxes. 6. Reasonable regulations and equal enforcement of them. 7. A fair and just Court system to resolve disputes. 8. Protection of property rights. 9. A variety of recreational choices. 10.Easy, safe commutes. 11.Safe, well-maintained infrastructure (roads, bridges, sewers, etc.) In my opinion, Minneapolis is excellent in #3, #4, #7, and #9. Minneapolis needs to improve #5, #6, and #8, #10 and #11. I don't know how to rate #1 and #2 - too subjective. Vicky Heller Cedar-Riverside and North Oaks _______________________________________ Minneapolis Issues Forum - A City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Subscribe, Unsubscribe, Digest, and more: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
