To the editor:
Since November 2009 there have been numerous articles and letters in The Courier-Tribune and The Randolph Guide that urge the voters of Randolph county to vote for an 8 percent general sales tax (7.75 percent + .25 percent). I don’t agree.
Education is a great and noble cause. Our county budgeted $26 million in 2008 and $27.5 million in 2009 for education. So we have certainly helped the students even in a down economy. I believe the RCC president and his “people” are sincere and really want good things for RCC, hence the frantic daily drumbeat from the RCC president and our elected officials to push a tax for more money for the building expansion and many other education wish lists.
However, voters should remember that our government does not have to use the tax increase for education nor will the tax sunset. When have any taxes ever decreased? This is just another tax increase dressed up in emotional issues such as education and the unfortunate unemployed. The unemployment in our county is due to the lack of jobs, not the lack of education. We need more businesses and the businesses we have need more income. This tax increase takes $2,000,000, out of our local economy that could be spent on more goods and services (which could be taxed). And this number will increase as the economy improves. As far as trying to scare property owners that we will have a property tax increase; are the county commissioners really threatening us with that?
Perhaps RCC should look for more innovative ways to accomplish their goals during this bad economy until tax receipts justify expanding the campus.
Please think. We already pay a lot of taxes on just about everything. At least you have a chance to vote and just say NO for this tax increase. Under the proposed increase we would still pay 2% for groceries and an 8% tax on general sales and services (even when we eat out). We would pay $8.00 for every $100.00 we spend (other than essentials). That is a lot of money right out of our pockets. Do you really want to do that in this economy?
I would urge my fellow retirees on fixed incomes; the unemployed; the underemployed; the self-employed; small businesses; and even the students at RCC to vote NO to the 8% proposed sales tax .
Ken Joyner
Randleman
