Tuesday, May. 13, 2008

Letter: Say no to new taxes

Editor: I am writing in opposition to the increased fees (taxes) promoted by Merced County Association of Governments (MCAG), and supported by the cities of Atwater, Gustine and Dos Palos.

Rather than propose a reasonable increase in line with the rate of inflation, MCAG proposes increasing fees for building permits by a staggering 226 percent. Since I am not currently in the housing market, this increase does not personally affect me at this time, but I am outraged at the suggestion of such a dramatic and unconscionable increase by any governmental agency.

I can only marvel at the lack of awareness of the bureaucrats involved, and wonder what in the world were thinking. Are they unaware that the people turned down the last three sales tax measures they were asked to vote on?

Are their heads in the sand about the current housing situation?

In this time of record housing foreclosures, people are struggling to be able to afford property at the current level of fees. More than doubling fees would only push more and more people out of the housing market.

Is this their goal?

Governmental agencies (and individuals) have nearly infinite needs and wants. There is no end to "good things" that could be done if more money were available.

The trouble is, the money needs to come from somewhere.

Since government has no way to make money, they must take it from individuals, under duress. I say it is time tell your elected officials to say no to this and similar outrageous tax/fee increases.

A little over two centuries ago, the citizens of Boston rebelled against a 4 percent tax on tea, and started a revolution. It seems that some in Merced County wish to continuing to travel down the road of increasing taxation without representation.

MICHAEL RENCH

Merced