WHAT WE THINK: Tough times

The Valdosta Daily Times

June 30, 2009 11:04 pm

— It would seem our local, state and national governments have forgotten who they are supposed to help. Or perhaps, they consider the average citizen in far better financial shape than most banks and car manufacturers across the nation.
Because instead of creative thinking and new ideas, it seems the only available solution to any problem is for our leaders to dig deeper into our pockets, to think of new ways to deplete our already fragile bank accounts.
Locally, residents must purchase a lump-sum $100 permit to use the trash collection centers. If you purchase the permit past Sept. 1, it costs an additional $25. Now, there are reports that the county is charging residents an additional amount per person in each household.
Last week, the state announced that homeowners will pay an average of $200 to $400 more property taxes each year.
This past weekend, a presidential spokesperson said there is a possibility that employer-provided health insurance may be taxed.
These are merely a few changes and proposals that have come in the past few weeks. It seems every other day, our leaders find new ways to take our money. And it’s not just one side of the political fence either. Democrat and Republican leaders are all finding ways to wheedle more money from their constituents.
Given that convenience stores can be charged with raising gas prices too high during an emergency, it’s a shame taxpayers can’t charge our governments with price-gouging.
Many households have reached a point of financial emergency.
And their governments are not helping. Instead, governments are inflicting pain on their constituents.
This isn’t the type of taxation that keeps some folks from having to downgrade luxury items. This is the type of taxation that has some people deciding if garbage disposal is a luxury, or wondering if they can keep their house. This is the type of taxation that has people down on their knees praying to God to spare them and their families from another burden.
These new fines, fees and taxes are hurting people. They are hurting regular, hard-working people who are more and more not only trying to get by but just stay afloat. The governments and leaders who claim they are working for the people are drowning the people.
People are hurting and they are crying out for help. If you’ve looked at the Rant & Rave on this page lately, you know that we could rename it A Cry for Help.
More taxes, fines and fees are not the help that people need.