Citizens urged to make voices known to commission

By Staff Reports

Editor:

Not so long ago the word got out that the commissioners in Nashville-Davidson County TN were going to raise property taxes. Fed up, citizens showed up in mass at their courthouse, to say enough! The results were that there was no tax hike and their charter was amended so that property tax rates could not be raised unless approved by the voters.

It was made clear at Thursday’s meeting of the County Budget Committee that our commissioners are prepared, ready and willing to once again raise our property tax in spite of a clear plan and submitted by Mayor Humphrey and others whereby this tax hike could be avoided. Perhaps it is time for a Carter County Tax Revolt, but it will require that citizens show up in one way or another.

Most commissioners never hear from their employer, the taxpayers. The only voices they hear from are officials who are always singing the blues with doomsday scenarios if budgets are cut. So most commissioners take the path of least resistance and vote for a tax increase if they don’t hear from the taxpayer.

You can get your three commissioners names, addresses and phone numbers from the Internet or by calling the courthouse. I wonder what effect hundreds of calls/letters/contacts from citizens would have.

On July 5 at 8:30 a.m. there will be a Financial Management meeting at the courthouse.

July 9 at 5:15 p.m. there will be a Budget Committee meeting at the courthouse.

July 16 at 9 a.m. the full commission will adopt the budget we allow at the courthouse.

If a little of your time is too much to ask, then think about this: How much time will you have to spend working in order to pay for the tax hike? It could be worth your while to show up. Next year they will be knocking at your door again.

Linda Stewart

Elizabethton