Blue Owl Brewing
BUDGET TACTICS OF A BRAT
RECEIVED Fri., Aug. 1, 2003
To the editor,
I recently read one of your statements regarding Austin's financial problems and the solutions Futrell offered. Solutions such as shortening the library hours, cutting police-force wages, and encouraging big-box corporations like Wal-Mart to build and bring in tax revenue for the city. These solutions given are just escaping the problem, not solving it.
Another appalling issue in the city finances are the facilities or amenities which are planned. Luxuries such as the soccer stadium, community center, and improving the beautiful Town Lake Park, these should not be in the budget when our quality of law enforcement, educational buildings, small businesses, and natural treasures are being threatened. These solutions sound like a brat's way of getting a new toy; asking mommy or daddy for money after selling the last toy they just got. When someone sacrifices quality, the job is only partially completed and these half-measures will avail nothing. Community facilities will come if the community wants them. Just as a 16 year old will buy his/her first vehicle if they are not given one, Austin too, can be self-supporting. We've all had to do it. Actions speak louder than words and I hope we can avoid sacrificing morals for money.
I recently read one of your statements regarding Austin's financial problems and the solutions Futrell offered. Solutions such as shortening the library hours, cutting police-force wages, and encouraging big-box corporations like Wal-Mart to build and bring in tax revenue for the city. These solutions given are just escaping the problem, not solving it.
Another appalling issue in the city finances are the facilities or amenities which are planned. Luxuries such as the soccer stadium, community center, and improving the beautiful Town Lake Park, these should not be in the budget when our quality of law enforcement, educational buildings, small businesses, and natural treasures are being threatened. These solutions sound like a brat's way of getting a new toy; asking mommy or daddy for money after selling the last toy they just got. When someone sacrifices quality, the job is only partially completed and these half-measures will avail nothing. Community facilities will come if the community wants them. Just as a 16 year old will buy his/her first vehicle if they are not given one, Austin too, can be self-supporting. We've all had to do it. Actions speak louder than words and I hope we can avoid sacrificing morals for money.
Sincerely,
Erik Fossum
Erik Fossum
