Mike Scharnow’s letter in the Times for Feb. 22 hit the nail squarely on the head. I have been promoting the need for a reliable source of revenue for over a year. I strongly believe a primary property tax is the most logical means, a concept that was supported by the Vision Fountain Hills conference.

Population growth and increased sales tax revenues simply are not enough and, in fact, could make our situation even more desperate.

Yes, a property tax has failed at least twice. However I hasten to point out that the Town’s Council has never supported the concept, even worked against it is some instances. The facts are that we are facing an ever-increasing deficit made more perilous by the extent of the deferred maintenance of our town’s infrastructure.

Failure to deal with the problem simply hastens the loss of all that makes Fountain Hills so special. State law limits any increase to two percent per year without a vote. I think it reasonable to assume that any Council which raises such a tax every year will be short-lived.

I implore every citizen to press the Council for a positive approach to a property tax and the launching of a solid campaign which could make it a successful one. Our way of life depends on it!