Letter: Likes services, not tax cuts

Dear Editor,

I received a mailing from Kitty Rhoades last week asking, “Which would you prefer: a gas tax or tax cuts?” I dislike paying taxes, just like everyone else, but on the other hand I really like the things gas taxes pay for: highways and bridges.

Since he was elected, Minnesota’s Gov. Pawlenty pursued with a vengeance the Republican policy of no new taxes. A year ago, deferred maintenance and reduced inspections led to the collapse of the I-35 bridge. Thirteen people died, and taxpayers are paying $260 million for the replacement bridge.

So, Kitty, given your choices, I’ll take a gas tax anytime. “No new taxes” is a great campaign slogan but poor policy. Taxes are the price we pay for public services. The collapse of the I-35 bridge should teach us that it’s cheaper to pay for good quality now than repair or replace failures in the future.

I’m voting for Sarah Bruch, she’s much more responsible about what Wisconsin really needs: reliable highways and bridges, good schools, affordable health care.

Tags: opinion, hudson, letter, bruch, services