A Couple of Quick Ones

Just a few quick notes today...

First, Councilor Dean Tran has filed a petition to reduce the increase in property taxes this year. Tran's argument is that homeowners have taken a beating in taxes, and instead of raising taxes 2.5 percent this year, he would like to see the increase lowered to 2.25 percent. It would save the average taxpayer $6, and cost the city just shy of $80,000.

Tran's petition makes a good point, but it's the kind of tax proposal that seems to hurt the city more than it helps the taxpayer. The $6 is barely two gallons of gas, while the $80,000 is a teacher or a cop. We appreciate Tran's attempt, but we'd rather spend our $6 and get an extra teacher in the classroom.

Second, Republican Edward Niemczura opened a campaign finance account this week, according to the state Office of Campaign and Political Finance. That leaves Mary Whitney as the only candidate without a fundraising operation. We're not starting to shake our heads sadly at this situation, and are considering ignoring Whitney entirely until this gets taken care of. There are certain things candidates just have to do to be taken seriously, at least trying to raise money is one of them. What is Whitney and her advisors thinking? She looks faded and overmatched right now.