The following letter to the editor was published in the El Segundo Herald newspaper (HeraldPublications.com) on Thursday, March 13, 2014 in the Letters section on page 2. The El Segundo Herald has a strict 250-word limit, including the title.
Measure ‘A’
While reviewing my sample ballot, Measure ‘A’ reminded me of an old carpenter helpers’ comment, to wit: “I’ve cut this board off twice, and it is still too short!”
Measure ‘A’ proponents say our tax structure for businesses is lower than neighboring cities… isn’t that the way it should be if we intend to attract new business? I’m befuddled to hear Council candidates tout a need for new business on the one hand, while at the same time strongly support measures for increasing taxes on the other.
Measure ‘A’ has the strong flavor of a Council wanting additional revenue, although supportive comments are weak to justify the need. Councils’ resolution mentions a fraction of the added revenue might be set aside for City projects, although this is a far cry from a Council commitment explaining how funds would be used; resolutions have no enforceable mechanism. Readers are urged to continue reading their ballot carefully to learn of several additional flaws in the proposition.
Speaking of surrounding cities I was surprised to learn, based on a simple Google search the stark difference between our current budget and that of Manhattan Beach. A rough comparison shows our budget is approximately twice that of Manhattan Beach, even though they likely have twice our population.
I hope this letter motivates you to demand that our elected officials do a better job of defining possible future revenue needs before asking us to vote for additional bondage.
– Richard J. Switz
El Segundo Police Officers' Association (ESPOA) Exposed