It would be reckless to approve a new tax that adds revenue into the general fund. All forms of expenses including salaries, raises, benefits, pension contributions and pet projects like swimming lagoons are funded through general fund revenues.

I could never vote for, or advocate a tax increase unless it is specifically and solely married to a legally formed repair and replacement fund (R&RF). Allocations from the R&RF, by law, would only be applied to fund repair and replacement projects. Not personnel, not new projects, not special interest pressure, etc.

Fountain Hills has gone through the traditional community model; prospering during the early years of growth when permit fees were the prime source of income and staffing ballooned to match the income. Fountain Hills then traveled through middle age by paring down on staffing and programs that were luxuries, not necessities. Now entering old age, the signs of physical aging are become apparent.

R&R needs are mounting without a source of revenue to rebuild the failing infrastructure. Community revitalization is necessary for Fountain Hills to remain a desirable and vibrant place to live. R&R of infrastructure is required for Fountain Hills to stay viable, much like medical needs keep rising in our aging population.

Again, I would not vote to approve any form of new tax revenue that flows into the general fund. The general fund is wide open to allow any and all type of expense allocations proposed in the annual operating budget to take precedent over R&R projects. General fund expenses are not restricted like a R&RF would be.

I would vote for a reasonable tax increase that is legally and solely married to pay for expenses to maintain the existing (not adding new) infrastructure within the Town of Fountain Hills.