Budget miscue: It is about money spent wisely, not just the tax rate

Funny how the promise of lower taxes can make some leaders single-minded and single-focused.

It is exhilarating really -- being able to say you cut the county or state's tax rate. Many politicians believe that such a pronouncement will be followed by cheers and applause.

But there is a bit of a misconception.

Most residents do not simply want their taxes cut by whatever means possible.

And while none of us would likely turn down a refund of any kind, truth is, it goes a little deeper than that.

People do not mind paying their fair share, despite what the powers that be sometimes like to claim. They want to fund programs and to help others get back on their feet. They want parks, roads and national defense.

They just hate seeing their money go to waste while they tighten their belts and wonder how they are going to make the bills this month.

But sometimes, leaders get carried away in their zeal to keep those tax cut promises. They cut meat instead of fat -- and hurt their communities in the process.

Let's hope the Wayne County commissioners have that thought in mind as they begin to eye the 2013-14 budget.

Saving money that is being wasted is great.

Cutting taxes and hurting the community's progress just so you can say you cut taxes?

Well, that's just not wise.

Published in Editorials on June 3, 2013 10:42 AM