Over my many decades I have lived in dozens of states, cities and towns, experiencing the good and bad in each local government. I chose to move to Fountain Hills and was pleased with what the town had to offer in the way of natural beauty, and happily noted that my property taxes were reasonable for what I was receiving.

That is about to change if this proposed new property referendum passes May 15. As one who understands finances and budgets, I project my taxes will increase by 20 percent or nearly a thousand dollars a year, all in the name of fixing the roads but delivering no new services. I’m also very troubled that bonding for new road work was not considered as a funding mechanism. Bonds have a stated end unlike this referendum which goes on forever; unless of course the politicians decide to reduce or end it.

And in reading the referendum I see the town can spend this new money, $7 million annually, on just about anything within their authority. Their spending is not restricted to repair and maintenance of our roads. And so I must say no, and hope the town will present us with another vehicle to fund the town’s budgetary needs.