Fri Jul 30 2010
Got milk?
A catchy phrase that has become part of the American thought. The person who thought that up really was on the mark. You don't have to say another word, but by seeing it you immediately start thinking about what it means. Let me put you on to another phrase ...
Got protection?
We do, but only in a reduced and undermanned stage. Through no fault of our own, Byesville was the hardest hit community in Guernsey County when it came to job loss during this current recession. Plastech was large at over 400. Ames was 100 or so. We took a beating. But, we have cut spending, reduced staff, costs and everything else. We survived (so far).
But, we had to place a levy for the police on the ballot. I just hated doing so, especially in this rough economy. Especially, since it goes against every grain in my body to ask for more. But, we had to in order to stay out of this limbo of having, but not having an effective police force to protect us night and day.
First question everyone asks is who will pay this levy?
Those who won't pay will be retirees, those without jobs, those who work in Cambridge or other communities with income tax, or those with passive income.
These people currently are not being taxed and will continue that way. Additional tax on those making twenty thousand a year will be one hundred dollars per year.
Another point and question is that we have the sheriff so why do we need police?
True, we do have sheriff protection when the police are not on. But, they have limited resources and we have already experienced some problems because of the lack of community policing. (I know. I field the calls.)
Additionally, insurance premiums on all of us will likely increase as a lack of security will likely lead to more criminal activity (more break-ins, property destruction and other destruction). Also, a town so close to the interstate has the potential for robberies and other violent behavior which banks and pharmacies have to be aware of (remember the one just about a year ago?)
I bring this up because it is the time that we have to make choices. I hate sounding like schools when they need a levy and say this or that will have to go. But once council put this on the ballot, I said I would support it in every manner. I have even thought about buying signs. My hope is that you ask each and every council candidate where they stand on the issue. Support is necessary, as the boo birds are already talking its demise and a negative spin can kill anything in a small town.
I have dedicated four or five articles over the last several months to this issue because it is a matter of importance to our health and safety.
Whether or not you like or dislike a particular person, or officer, what is in the best interests of us all? Like I said before ...
Got protection? Let's keep it.
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