Getting Caught With Your Hand in the Cookie Jar
The headline in the Sunday, December 17, 2007 Washington Post noted the Arlington County Board delayed a tax vote because residents were unaware of the the county’s “plan to finance drainage system repairs.” Kirsten Downey of the Post wrote:
“Facing a citizen revolt, the Arlington County Board delayed action yesterday on a tax on residents to be used to rebuild the county's old storm-water drainage system. After putting the tax idea on a fast track, the board voted unanimously to hold a public hearing in March to allow for more debate on how the work can be financed.
“Many county residents said they did not realize that a tax was being considered until it was discussed last month near the end of a board meeting.”
Downey included portions of the testimony of two speakers, which explains what brought some residents to speak to the Board:
- "They suddenly introduced it in the dead of night on Nov. 27, and they were ready to pass it on Dec. 15," said Larry Mayer, president of the Arlington County Civic Federation.”
- “Roye L. Lowry, a county board member in the 1960s, said he opposed the tax, calling it "a poor idea that would complicate our tax system." He said that it was time for the county to examine its primary financial obligations, such as retiree health benefits, before taking on other expenses. “Political and economic uncertainties are affecting every level of government," Lowry said. "It's time for a gut check."
Super Arlington taxpayer watchdog, Wayne Kubicki, suggested that deferring a vote until March 2008 would be “mere window-dressing,” and his suspicion was confirmed by Board member Barbara Favola (D) who:
“suggested that the board will eventually approve a way to pay for the drainage system repairs. "It's important we have a dedicated source of revenue. . . "
If a core governmental service such as stormwater drainage needs a “dedicated source of revenue,” then let’s dedicate portions of the real estate property tax for parks, recreation, health, welfare, police, fire, etc. What distinguishes a drainage system for having a dedicated revenue source?
The online Arlington Sun-Gazette also reported on the delay of the tax vote. The resolution (requires Adobe) passed by the Civic Federation is here. County Board agenda item 31 (and supplemental report) can be accessed here.