[RP TownTalk] Why the big tax hike?

[Nancy Augustine]

David -
I'm glad you added your perspective to this discussion. Helpful context for
understanding the nature of this discussion, especially for someone who does
not get much involved in local politics.

Starting in September sounds way too early. Works has a way of expanding to
fill whatever time is allotted. I do agree, however, that more information
would help me make a better-informed discussion.  That and some
rearrangement of the material that has already been presented. In this 11th
hour, I'll leave it at that - this is a topic to take up as we approach the
budget process for next year. 

Nancy
Riverdale Road


-----Original Message-----
From: towntalk-bounces at riverdale-park.org
[mailto:towntalk-bounces at riverdale-park.org] On Behalf Of David Hiles
Sent: Sunday, May 20, 2007 3:07 PM
To: riverdaleparkies at groups.yahoo.com
Cc: TownTalk at riverdale-park.org
Subject: Re: [RP TownTalk] Why the big tax hike?

Town tax decisions are repeatedly made under time pressure.  This year is an
example.  One procedural change which would help would be to have a
council/citizen task force that examines the budget (including tax rate and
necessary revenue) for the UPCOMING year and which issues a recommendation
WELL AHEAD of the time when it has to be set by law.  For example, such a
committee might begin work in September 2007 and issue a recommendation in
January 2008.

Town tax issues have often been heavily laced with conflict between the two
town political factions.  It was hard to get people to work on the budget
and  make commitments because they were concerned about  
how their actions would be unfairly RE used in the next campaign.   
Right now, one faction seems very weak so there would be less of that old
pressure.  Another way to permanently relieve this pressure would be to make
council and mayor terms 4 years long instead of 2, with staggered terms of
office.
_______________________________________________
TownTalk mailing list
To post to the list, send mail to TownTalk at riverdale-park.org
TownTalk-request at riverdale-park.org is for automated subscription processing
only http://riverdale-park.org/mailman/listinfo/towntalk

For more information about Riverdale Park, visit
http://www.ci.riverdale-park.md.us