My views on taxes and fees in the Town.
We need tax relief, not more new taxes! I will not vote for any new taxes. Also, the use of the term "fees" to impose new excessive taxes is obscene. I support Proposition 26 (and oppose Prop 25) and the honest use of the terms "fee," "levy," and "tax." A truly acceptable fee must be tied to an actual service received, be reasonable in that it reimburses the government for time and resources spent in delivering the service, and be used appropriately in supporting the department(s) providing the service. Therefore a $100 dog licensing fee that helps fund the animal shelter, road improvements, and sewer maintenance is unacceptable. A $10 fee that helps to recover the cost of employment for the licensing agent would be acceptable. Californians already are taxed to death, there is no need to further that practice! A prime example of a fee that has nothing to do with what you are being charged for is given to us this year on the ballot as Proposition 21. An increase in the Vehicle License Fee is used to fund the State Park system. While I support the State Parks and enjoy spending time in the parks, adding this "fee" on the vehicle registration of almost every vehicle in California (even those who never use the parks) is not an acceptable way to fund the system. At least the proposed tax is going to the voters for approval.
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