Tax abatement needs good follow through

Editor:

The presentation of the Tax Abatement Issue was a sound one. However, given the history of Highlands County board of commissioners, the acceptance of the ballot issue was like buying a pig in a poke. The dire economic crisis we face calls for stronger effort in reclaiming a working economy, but voting on this issue before establishing the policy, rules and regulations caused some concern.

Please note it was the business industry that created the disaster we face today; the business industry (Wall Street, bankers, et al) that was bailed out with $3 trillion, tax free, but somehow could not provide funds to small banks to lend money to small businesses for payroll, material, etc., that has stalled the economic process. It was Corporate America that outsourced jobs overseas and imported people from around the globe for cheap labor that accounts for today's high unemployment rate.

It was good to hear that a committee will be formed to establish the policy, rules and regulations before the county commission votes on it. Transparency is the key factor. This document must have enforcement powers the commission and potential new businesses will comply with. Past history conveys the lack of enforcement/compliance to the rules and regulations of the zoning and planning board. When they talk about jobs, it must mean jobs for Highlands County residents; it must mean buying material and goods in Highlands County. When they talk about economic recovery, it must mean that the cost of infrastructure is not passed onto the local taxpayers already here.

I would like to be an alternate member of this committee to observe the development of this policy. There are many good citizens here who can formulate it.

Gabriel Read

Sebring