[Winona Online Democracy] There is an assumption that everyone in and outside the city places a value on parks, libraries and swimming pools. That those outside the city are leaching off city taxpayers. Value is a perspective of those who use such services and want others to share in the cost to support them because they believe them to be important. Public transportation, city buses, is one such example as it requires massive subsidies in an effort to create rider ship or usage for a few. Basic public services, police and fire protection, snow removal and roads are provided in the townships through taxes levied by the townships and the county. Most would consider them fundamental and the reason we pay for them from real estate taxes is they benefit property. If a Winona resident has a car fire on I90 highway 43 exit it would be the Wilson Township Fire Department that would respond not the City of Winona. Certain services by all government entities are for the mutual benefit of all of us.
If I own 5 or 40 acres in the country I have my park in my yard. I may even dig a pond or put in a swimming pool if that is of interest. My music may be the peace and quiet of hearing birds, the water running in a stream or shooting a gun. My relaxation maybe the deer, squirrels or my dog running free in my back forty. Some of us would rather play in our yard, our workshop or just relax in front of the TV after putting in a long workday in the big city. And for many of us less public amenities would be welcome if it resulted in lower taxes and higher user fees. Paul Double _______________________________________________ This message was posted to Winona Online Democracy All messages must be signed by the senders actual name. No commercial solicitations are allowed on this list. To manage your subscription or view the message archives, please visit http://mapnp.mnforum.org/mailman/listinfo/winona Any problems or suggestions can be directed to mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] If you want help on how to contact elected officials, go to the Contact page at http://www.winonaonlinedemocracy.org
