1. Screen shots from Austin-American Statesman
2. Economy; Consumer/Financial
3. Local level
4. This article explains a problem/issue that individuals
and families face in the city of Austin, Texas.
5. This article is important for individuals and families of
Austin, Texas to be aware of. The article explains the proposed tax increases
for the 2013-2014 year. These tax increases directly affect the economy, family
budgeting and we also must consider the benefits of increased taxes (if
any).
6. The article explains that City Manager, Marc Ott, had
proposed unnecessary tax increase for the next financial year. According to the
author and the Mayor of Austin, the city of Austin has a thriving economy. I
feel the proposed taxes allow greedy politicians to fund programs that assist
their interests, not the well being of Austin citizens.
I believe in taxes. Taxes fund education, roads, libraries,
and a quality of life. However, quality of life should be equal to all
citizens. When taxes increase for the sake of some citizens’ benefit over
others, then I oppose taxes.
The Mayor of Austin, Lee Leffingwell stated, “if we can’t
hold our tax rate flat in prosperous time, when can we do it?” Liffingwell’s
quote sums up my opinion of unnecessary taxation. When I get a raise at work,
or a check for birthday money from my adorable 89-year-old grandfather (yes, I
still get those) I save that money and apply it to my debt and my current
bills. I don’t take that money and commit to new debt and new bills. As I do, a
city needs to live within the financial means the city has. If the city of
Austin’s budget is continually growing in order to expand programs that don’t
need fixing the budget will never stop growing.
The increased property taxes hurt the poor population of
Austin. As Austin continues to become a popular relocation destination, and a
host for festivals such as South by Southwest, the cost of living is rising
significantly. The poor can’t afford the current rises in taxes. Further taxes
will take money out of the poor pocket, but offer them city growth they can’t
enjoy due to having a lack of “fun
money”.
I do enjoy knowing Leffingwell is grounded enough to oppose tax increases. However, he is not the final-say in whether tax increases pass.
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