Less politics, more solutions

EDITOR,
Political rhetoric drives me crazy. For the most part, I usually agree with the mayor’s positions; for example, on smart meters. However, in this instance (Commentary, “No time for higher taxes,” Jim Reed, Sept. 17), I must respectfully disagree. His recent commentary regarding Measure C was laden with partisan rhetoric that divides our community but doesn’t move us to solutions.
First, he calls Measure C a “new tax.” This is erroneous — it is simply an extension of an existing tax. Second, while it appears we may have the money now in reserves, this reserve will likely not hold up in the face of a decline in our local economy. Third, this tax has little, if any, effect on small businesses. Business is simply a collection agency for the government. And the tax has no direct impact to a business’ bottom line.
There is a very important reason to support Measure C. Effective organizations are managed to project the future. The organizations that have survived economic disaster are those that have anticipated what could happen and have planned financially to sustain themselves through good and bad times. I personally don’t like taxes and have never met anyone who does. However, the consequences of starving our police, parks, etc., for resources are much worse. Measure C will allow city government to have resources to meet the needs of the Scotts Valley community and to anticipate the good and especially bad times.
Our community deserves more solutions and less partisan politics.
Rosanna Herrera, small-business owner, Scotts Valley