Posted by
Philly Joe on Saturday, August 05, 2006 11:24:08 AM
Sometimes I wonder if there is a correct level of
taxes. I have come to think that the level should be as low as
possible in order to have the least slowing effect on the economy and
the smallest burden of the taxpayer. I think it can be
determined by competition. If another city or state provides the
things your city or state does while having lower taxes, that's an
indication that your local jurisdiction isn't as efficient and
therefore has unnecessarily high taxes.
Some taxes
are necessary. Obviously Police are required to keep the strong from
preying on the weak, Fire departments for the public safety.
Business cannot florish without stability, so government
spending in these areas in money very well spent.
The
struggle is to keep government from trying to do things it
doesn't do as well as private sector or things that aren't necessary at
all. If your City erects a monument to a recently passed away
politician, it may seem like a nice idea, but what if your share of the
taxes used for the project could have bought you a 50 inch plazma
TV? No one project could use that much of any one taxpayers
money, but what about the total of all things your City does that
aren't necessary? Maybe we all could have had that big screen last year.
Joe