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Darke County Commissioner Mike Stegall
Response to
Robinson’s “That’s My Opinion” on the Conveyance Fee
Dear Bob,
I thought your article on the conveyance fee was very well done.
You make some very good points, especially since this is a tax.
Calling it a fee makes it easier on us, but it is what it is. When we
were campaigning I said I was not for new taxes, and I meant it.
I also knew that some taxes were necessary.
Your statement in the article that you would do everything in your
power to support economic development and your understanding of its
importance, leads me to believe that you would support this tax if it
was something other than a tax. (I know, that sounds weird doesn’t it!)
I wonder if you would support a fire levy? If your fire
department came to you and said, “Bob, our old fire truck is 30 years
old and we can’t get parts anymore. We need to add a ½% levy to
buy a new one, will you help?” Would you say no just because as
you stated “A tax is a tax is a tax, make due with what you
have.” What about a police levy, or a 911 levy? “A tax is a
tax is a tax, make due with what you have!”
Now, my friend, I am in no way suggesting that economic development is
as important as fire protection or any of the others, but the
relationship between the two is obvious. If economic
development grows, income grows, money is available to make important
purchases. We have gathered, as you know, so much momentum in the
last six mos., and I would hate to lose that because we cannot offer a
good business, (not just ANY business), a competitive
environment. As you also stated, “our young people need
jobs, or they will go elsewhere”, that indicates that you understand
the importance of the Economic Development’s mission. Our young
people need help, and that help will come from the efforts of the
Economic Development dept. Why not give them the tools to do the
job?
Every tax that is proposed is not a good use of taxpayer dollars. So
much is wasted. Bob, I know that the people spoke in
November and said no new taxes. (you and I were two of the
speakers!) I do understand the realities of the economic
condition in Darke County. Bob, I also know that things are
getting better. I totally believe that this small investment (I
look at some taxes from a business standpoint) in the County will reap
rewards far greater than its cost.
Return on investment, Bob, that’s what I look for, and this will return
far more than is spent. Thanks for your time old friend, and keep
an eye on us in the Commissioners office, we both want more
openness with the public, and working together, we will make it happen.
Respectfully,
Mike
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