Okay If Good Services Cost More

Letter to the Editor
Published: March 20, 2008

To the editor,

Having the lowest possible real estate tax rate is not a sensible objective. Having the lowest tax rate consistent with the values and objectives of our citizens is both reasonable and intelligent.

If we want the lowest possible taxes regardless of consequences we could take some drastic actions. For example, we could close the schools and require that children be educated at home or in private schools. We could eliminate law enforcement, jails and the court system and rely on vigilante justice. (Note to the board of supervisors: You would be wise to keep enough deputies to protect you from an irate citizenry.) We could require residents to arm themselves and shoot all stray animals so we would not need the animal shelter.

These are just a few of many actions we could take to virtually eliminate the need for a real estate tax. Obviously, this is nonsense. Our children have a right to expect the best possible education we are capable of providing. We have a right to live in a safe, crime-free community and need a law enforcement and judicial system capable of providing it. We want to remain proud of our animal shelter which does a great job of animal control while simultaneously saving the lives of the animals we have chosen to live with us.

The bottom line: In exchange for a safe community that cares about its children, its pets and the welfare of all of its citizens, most residents of Orange County are able and willing to add a few extra dollars to their tax bill.

A note to the board of supervisors: Please back off your obsession to lower taxes regardless of the consequences. If you need to raise taxes nine cents, or 12 cents or whatever, in order to make the county a place we enjoy and others envy, show some courage and do it. If we are proud of our community, your chance of reelection is probably quite good. If we are ashamed, regardless of the tax rate, probably not so good. Make us proud of this county: proud of our schools, our crime rate, our county employees, our animal shelter, our ability to help those in need, and yes, even our board of supervisors. If it costs a little more, so be it.

Robert Cooke
Locust Grove