Reader: Uniformed voters add to borough’s tough situation

We are only beginning to see the damaging results of Prop 5. The passage of Prop 5 at our last election proves that a majority of voters go to the polls uninformed. The group calling itself Alliance of Concerned Taxpayers has done the public a huge disservice by introducing Prop 5 and getting it passed. We all will suffer the sad consequences of this far into the future.

Without researching the cause and effect of Prop 5, many voters cast their vote for lower taxes. The money for operating government must come from somewhere, and now the most likely place for it to come from is the property owner.

I agree that government always has some fat in its budget, but Prop 5 goes way too far. Owners of real estate will be asked to come up with additional money, by a mill rate increase.

Another problem is the requirement that any capital projects in excess of 1 million go before the voters. This will delay or cancel many needed projects. When a planned project for your road is voted down by voters from other areas, how will you feel about Prop 5 then? You can think about that while you walk to work during break up. Think about it again when you get your property tax bill this fall.

Mayor Williams and his staff are doing a good job with the cards we all have been dealt by the ACT group. There will be many difficult and unpopular decisions to be made. When you feel the pain, don’t blame the current administration, but direct your anger towards the Alliance of Concerned Taxpayers. Maybe the next election will bring about some relief from this ignorant legislation. Until that time, we will all feel the effects of Prop 5.

Joseph Ross

Nikiski