10-04-2012 6:20pm

Saline Mayoral Election: Tax Increases?

Government is always a balancing act between taxing residents and spending on programs that serve them. But during this year's budget deliberations, Saline City Manager Todd Campbell said city services were down to the bone, and it was suggested that a balanced approach that included revenue enhancements (taxes) might be needed. So today we ask mayoral candidates Glenn Law and Brian Marl if they would consider raising taxes.

Readers can see the candidates side-to-side at 7 p.m., Oct. 22 at Liberty School, where the Saline Coalition for a Quality Community will host an election forum.

Here is today's question:

In recent years, the city has balanced budget through worker concessions, attrition, borrowing, putting off purchases and dipping into the fund balance, electing not to pursue available tax increases. City services have been described as down to the bone. Is a tax increase something you will consider? Why or why not? What are the factors you will keep in mind when considering a tax increase?

Glenn Law

The next budget could very well be harder than this past year's budget. The city has maintained the millage at the current level for years despite dwindling revenues and massive cuts in state aid. A tax increase is something I can't rule out if it means maintaining the current level of services residents come to expect. Before even entertaining the notion of a tax increase I would want everything on the table where further reductions, if any, can be made. I want to make sure that every avenue to make reductions has been looked at and considered fully. Much of what is happening or may happen in Lansing concerning the personal property tax will guide how the city deals with the upcoming budget and how the millage will look in early June. I can't promise that taxes won't be raised, but I can promise that I will see to it that taxpayers' money is spent and used wisely.

Brian Marl

If elected mayor, I would consider a tax increase, but only as a last resort. My style of leadership is such that I don’t ever want to take an option off the table. During my four years on City Council, the city has faced a very tough period, and residents simply cannot afford new taxes without good reason. Instead, I think city government should look closely at further ways to consolidate or streamline the way things are done. As a Council member, I was a stout advocate for maintaining our current millage rate and looking at other ways of cutting costs and managing increasing expenses. These are difficult decisions to make, but they are truly in the best interest of Saline and its residents, present and future.

Previous Questions

Saline Mayoral Election: Why Do You Want To Be Mayor?

Saline Mayoral Election: Guiding Principles and Beliefs in Public Service

Saline Mayoral Election: 3 Biggest Issues