Yesterday February 07, 2012, was a voting day in Missouri. In Barry County we had to items on the agenda. One was for Presidential candidates, choosing whether you wanted a Democrat ballot, or Republican ballot. I am not particularly fond of either party right now; but I did choose the Republican ballot and voted for Rick Santorum.
Another thing on our ballot was for a 911 tax. It recently failed. That was back in November by a very slim margin. I think the leaders of our 911 system have stuck it to the people of the area, saying they needed the funding, when they have operated since that time without a hitch. Many agencies need to learn to cut back on foolishness in spending. That is true in Barry County too. My vote on this initiative was “No!” for the tax. However, it passed; and I understand by a 2 to 1 margin. The majority has spoken; now we all will pay for it. Now they will probably come back in a couple to five years and ask for more.
Let’s get real though. In our present economy is it the right thing to do to increase taxes? Never. The idea would be to promote economic growth; and with that tax revenues will increase. So much for stimulating the economy. Remember Winston Churchill’s quote;
“I contend that for a nation to try to tax itself into prosperity is like a man standing in a bucket and trying to lift himself up by the handle.” — Winston Churchill
Enough said here along the banks of Flat Creek.
-Tim
Flat Creek Rolling 