Thoughts on the Tea Party

While I commend anyone that takes a stand, I have to wonder what they were standing for? I heard all of the complaints of higher taxes. What I didn't hear were the complaints when the City of Salisbury raised property taxes just 2 years ago. I didn't hear the complaints last year when the sewer and water rates were increased 50% over 5 years and now another 15% coming this year. Where were the protesters then? Where were your signatures when we were out collecting them to take the proposed 17% tax hike to referendum? Where will you be when Rick Pollitt makes every attempt at removing the tax cap in the county? Exactly what taxes were being protested? Cigarette tax, fuel tax, food tax, lodging tax, luxury tax, clothing tax, property tax, income tax, school tax, amusement tax, etc.?

While I agree this country is out of hand with it's give aways and wasteful spending I will also agree attention was brought to the White House through a nationwide effort. I don't agree it will be effective. If you want to affect change start in your own towns and cities then take it to the county level, moving on to the state house then take your complaints to DC once you have affected change on a local level.

Start with city and county council meetings, let these elected officials know people are watching and people will stand up and speak against wasteful spending. The city and county are both going into their budget sessions, spend some time hearing how they want to spend your tax dollars. Start with demanding an audit of the Board of Education or making positions at the Board of Ed elected. I'm certain a lot of fat can be cut from their administrative budget. There is a difference in spending on education and spending on administration for education. We can cut the fat in the fire department. What is the purpose of having the newest "toys" if you don't have the manpower to utilize those "toys"? If you are going to be active, be active right here in your own back yard. Believe me when I tell you the city council members get especially nervous when the room is packed with citizens. In fact, Louise Smith comes unglued and has been known to shut meetings down completely.

What will happen to the city when the last of the old timers can no longer attend meetings and speak out against wasteful spending? There will be no one there to hold their feet to the fire. In two years there will be another city council election, the incumbents will either get their act together now during this budget session or know they have no chance of ever being reelected to office. The same goes for the wasteful spending on the county side, hold their feet to the fire or let them know in no uncertain terms they will not be reelected. Of course none of this can be done without active participation of the citizens and a watchful eye.

The apathy has paralyzed the citizens in this area. I have heard people say they don't speak up because it won't change anything, or they say I have a business or, I don't want them coming after me or, I work for the city I don't want to lose my job. The reign of terror in the city is over so stop making excuses and take hold of your city and the way elected officials handle your money.

You need only speak three words for them to hear the message loud and clear. ENOUGH IS ENOUGH!