I’ve pretty much accepted Governor Snyder to lead our state. Since he was elected to lead Michigan in 2010, and having survived his Nerd nick name it’s time to re-read some of his actions.
He’s become an-atypical politician,
He knows his constituents are anxious for better, safer roads and bridges.
And like almost all politicians, he calls all the media to announce is new tax proposals.
In yelling tones he shouts ‘WE NEED TO RAISE TAXES!?
There is no alternative but to raise taxes.
But there is an alternative!
CUT EXPENSES!
In 2010, under Gov. Granholm’s leadership, and continuing with Snyder, they have been planning commuter-size passenger rails from Detroit, to Ann Arbor and Howell. The state has been leasing land for years in Owosso’s railroad yards, costing more than a $ l million a year
The Michigan Department of Transportation has already paid Great Lakes Central Railroad, which owns the 23 double-decker rail cars, $7.5 million to refurbish them. That’s we taxpayers? money, folks.
There has been roughly $11.4 million spent as of Dec. 31 — mostly paid from Michigan’s $1.9 billion comprehensive Transportation Fund, which is raised from fuel taxes vehicle registration fees and used to pay for road repairs, transit and rail.
Snyder’s pitch now for new taxes is, ‘It will go for public safety, which will be a major issue in the campaign.?
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I’ve read a lot about the proposed wording for the May ballot initiative to hike Michigan’s sales tax.
Our state has hired some consultants to provide help selling us on the tax increase, etc proposal. One such firm, Martin Waymire, said ‘I believe that once the people understand (tax) is needed to restore and improve the safety of Michigan roads, they will vote yes.?
Since the ballot language hasn’t been finalized at this point, maybe its writers and Snyder will consider a ‘I? question ballot, and read some of the anti tax reporting.
I’m hoping voters drop their hands long enough to hit the ‘NO? button. And the idiots in Lansing will give us one simple ballot choice at a time.