When choosing candidates for positions of power over our tax dollars, it is crucial that we all scrutinize their records. Each candidate will fall on a range between two extremes. One extreme is committed to smaller government, transparency and accountability, fewer laws and less interference (regulation) for small business and private lives. The opposite extreme consistently votes to increase bureaucracy, regulations and taxes, with never-ending incremental intrusions into private lives. I ask you to determine where Phil Rockefeller falls.
I encourage everyone to research Mr. Rockefeller’s record, but here are just a couple examples that define where he falls within the above mentioned range. It seems to me that Phil Rockefeller has little regard for the will of the people he supposedly represents. It appears his primary focus is to increase taxes and the number of government jobs and pass intrusive laws that will restrict your freedom.
Example 1: E2SSB 5278 — Use of tax dollars to pay for local campaigns. This is in direct opposition to Citizen’s Initiative 134 (passed by 60 percent of voters) prohibiting use of tax dollars to finance campaigns.
Example 2: HB 2815 SB 6515 — This bill, in the name of global warming will limit the miles we can drive (a reduction of 18 percent by 2020 and 50 percent by 2050). The Evergreen Foundation research describes 25,000 “green jobs” by 2020 that will cost $2 billion every year forever.
Example 3: Perhaps the shoddiest example of “double speak” is his vote for SB 6178, titled Property Tax Deferral. This defers 50 percent of your property taxes. Sounds great until you read the fine print. Under this provision, the government places a lien on your property at an annual rate of 7 percent interest. When you go to sell, the big hand of government will reach in and confiscate not only excise tax, but a huge chunk of your equity.
It’s time for someone to represent Kitsap County’s interests. We need someone who will fight to keep taxes down, as well as reduce the cost of ferries and the increasing intrusions into our lives. Vote for Connie Lord. She is as honest as the day is long and she’s not afraid to fight on your behalf.
LUCY WELLS
Poulsbo
