I was appalled by the article “Council studies $30 million tax hike” (April 22, The Columbian). It read like a Christmas list, as if our hard-earned money is the city council’s personal bank to raise our taxes to enhance and build new parks, remodel buildings, “boost” the Fourth Plain area, citywide culture and improve cycle and pedestrian safety.
Taxes should only be raised because there is a need, not because city planners or city departments got together and came up with some projects to keep city employees busy. There is a need for tackling the growing homelessness issue (drugs) and creating more affordable housing, but the remainder of the wish list? The article says there was a lot of public outreach and public feedback. Who? When?
Property taxes have gone up exponentially. When will enough be enough? Now property taxes are raising another 44 cents per $1,000, along with adding utility tax rates, internet taxes, increased park fees as well as all sorts of taxes for the small-business folks.
Thank you Councilman Bill Turlay for stating what I am sure many who receive The Columbian are feeling.
