[Winona Online Democracy]
Since much of our discussion evolves around the need of government units to
want more money in the form of taxes or fees we and they need to keep in
mind that the Cost of Living Index for 2005 was 3.4%. That figure should
represent the maximum amount of revenue or expense increases reflected in
their budgets for 2006. If they are getting larger amounts then we
taxpayers are keeping less to pay our living expenses. We, to control
government growth, need always to question all building expansion since that
maybe the best indicator that space is wanted to hire and house more people
on the taxpayer's payroll.
Government officials might say that if the community is growing then they
need more dollars than 3.4% to serve the growth but that argument works both
ways.
So when the city, county or WAPS publishes their financial track record for
this year look at percentage not the dollars. Look at what they spent not
what they levied because they have revenues other than just property taxes.
Look at their payroll and benefit cost growth not what you read as
settlements. When you see any expense approved for more than 3.4% call your
elected Commissioner, Council member or Board member and ask them what
reductions will be implemented to make up the difference!
.....And when you see government buildings being sold understand this is a
good thing because that property is going back on the tax rolls reducing
your property taxes and that government is shrinking leaving even more in
your pocket to pay your bills.
Paul Double
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