Re: [MLUG - DISCUSSION] local ballot issues [Local Politics]

[Jonathan King <EMAIL:PROTECTED>]

On 11/8/05, Vern Green <EMAIL:PROTECTED> wrote:
> Shawn,
>
> The problem is, the government officials will get this extra money, then
> they will take the money they are currently spending on roads and sidewalks
> and spend that money on something else with a zero net sum gain for roads
> and sidewalks.

Uh...like what, Vern?  The tax issues for roads and sidewalks appeared
on the ballot precisely because people are moaning about the streets
and sidewalks.  It's not like Columbia controls the school district,
or has profound expenses in lots of other areas besides parks,
streets, some public safety and infrastructure.  The tax issues were
for parks (check), allegedly public safety (check) and streets.  Last
time, we did sewers.  I understand some amount of cynicism, but
Columbia's finances are way more transparent than a lot of places I've
lived.  If you don't extend the tax to buy more parkland, they
basically won't buy any.  If you don't ante up for extending the sewer
system, it won't get extended.

The classic zero sum gain trick is the state lottery in practically
any state.  While always ear-marked for something worthy, it's easy to
see how they shift the money around.

jking

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