Clayton Hill
Jefferson City
Dear Editor:
Councilman Scott Spencer recommends an efficiency study ahead of a salary study. I agree, as has the News Tribune in an editorial. Before a salary study, and for that matter, the sales tax increase proposed this November, we deserve to know our real needs and that the obvious waste and unnecessary are eliminated or minimized. Reducing staff, outsourcing requirements and consolidation are all viable methods proposed to secure viability. Too bad only one single-minded councilman recognizes this – others should have similar goals and abandon our city's progressive mood. Regarding the proposed public safety sales tax, more effort needs to be put forth toward crime reduction; that effort may reduce public safety requirements and negate the need for additional taxes.
Recently, home from vacation in southwest Florida, I observed another abuse of public funds – they not only designate bike and pedestrian lanes but paint the surface green – as if that's the only place bikes, scooters and skateboards operate. Don't give our parks any ideas. I say "tongue-in-cheek," why not license bikes and scooters to help pay for expansion and upkeep of our green-way trails. Pro-environment enthusiasts promote the climate change agenda, wind farms, and eliminating fossil fuels; surely, they recognize that the paint residual will end up in the creeks. Bikes, wind structures and most manufactured goods include materials produced by the fossil-fueled manufacturing processes. Environmentalists' agendas are based on similar false predications. Regarding Adrian Island's soil testing, I believe testing is a prudent measure. Not knowing the soils' make-up is like sticking your head in the sand (pun intended). While I would expect inorganic and chemical deposits there, I doubt they would be a safety concern, but for sure I would not expect the soils to be anything near a pristine ocean beach.
Other possible ideas should be presented by concerned citizens as to how the city can save tax money and be more efficient. Some ideas: Reduce the police department space needs. Much is accomplished from their vehicles anyway; administrative space could be collocated with the out-lying fire department locations; add responsibility and spending of park's funds towards costs such as clearing greenways and streams; accomplish vehicle fleet studies to ensure optimal efficiency and utilization. Audit individual departments' operations. Bottom line concerning the upcoming election: throwing money at the problems or shortfalls is not necessarily the solution. Vote accordingly.