I attended the town hall meeting where the particulars of the lagoon project were presented. At that time, a property tax looked like a much better option to increase town revenue compared to that monstrosity. I have since moved from support to opposition.

My reservations have grown concerning the amount and logistics of the proposed tax. Although I can see the need for more revenue for the town, I do not feel that the proposed tax is fully vetted against our needs while appropriate controls on future spending and tax increases are not provided for.

The town of Stafford, Texas, has been referenced a few times for comparative purposes. Both towns have similar budgets and population. Stafford has no property tax but has more of an industrial base as a source of revenue. I find the difference lies in the tax and spend policies of each town.

From the Stafford budget message: “This fiscal year 2017-2018 budget embraces the principles of capitalism. It is based on a zero property tax, living within our means, a lean and efficient staff and providing our citizens with strong services. It is not – as some wish to pursue – a socialistic, spend thrift, bloated bureaucracy and developer kickback scheme.”

From our budget: “All of the department directors made compelling justifications for additional staffing as part of their supplemental budget requests. If the town had the revenues to support these requests, nearly all of the requests would have been recommended.”

In light of a position that if we had more we would spend more, I suggest we put this tax off until the numbers are fully vetted and a defined freeze on future spending and tax increases are included.

Vote no now and expect a more considered and deliberated proposal.