There are many very obvious financial challenges for our people and local governments at any time. But they are particularly difficult in this time of general national and local economic recession.
Chattanooga’s City Council members, for example, say they are trying to “cut to the bone” to reduce unnecessary costs in making their budget for the coming fiscal year. But nevertheless, an unwanted city property tax increase apparently is threatened to cover necessary costs.
Tax increases are not generally welcomed at any time, but particularly not during recession.
Meanwhile, the City Council has approved increases in fees or other charges required for many things, such as signs, buildings, hotels and motels, adult entertainment, electrical work, Fire Department, gas, manufacturing, special events, parking fines and plumbing.
At the same time, City Council members and Chattanooga’s independent committee that is looking at water quality control problems are in sharp conflict concerning proposals for big charges to our businesses and residences involving stormwater runoff.
How these issues finally work out obviously will have a big impact financially upon all of our people and upon city government finances.
There is considerable natural anxiety when these issues and the financial results are not clear, and the people are awaiting resolution.
Our citizens surely would not welcome any substantial increase in property taxes, fees or any other costs at any time, and especially not now in a recession.
Our officials are facing real difficulties, and thus so are all of us Chattanoogans, resulting in some justified anxiety.