Letters to the Editor: Aug. 17, 2010

It’s a half percent, not half cent
Regarding last week’s editorial. It is important to remember that the proposed sales tax increase is not a “half-cent” sales tax increase. Rather, it is a “half-percent” sales tax increase.

A half-cent increase would mean that we would each make a one-time payment of half of a penny. A half-percent sales tax increase means that we will all pay half of one percent more of the price of almost everything we buy. For example, if we buy a $100 item, we will pay 50 cents more. This not a “half-cent”; it is 50 cents.

If somebody buys, for example, a $30,000 car, he or she will pay an additional $150 in sales tax. This is not a “half-cent.” Rather, it is $150. If you bring home $50,000 per year, and spend your earnings on taxable items, as most of us do, you will pay $250 more in taxes per year, every year.

And, as referenced in the editorial, when was the last time a “temporary” sales tax became anything but permanent?
Jim J. Steinberg
Rancho Bernardo

More on Refresh RB

While there is no reason to respond to the tone and content of Mr. Parris’ Aug. 5 letter (regarding refreshing Rancho Bernardo’s business district), it seems more productive to focus on the real issues while recognizing the generous efforts of Councilman DeMaio and the volunteers for donating their time on behalf of the merchants and community.

Everyone who has donated or will donate time to work together in a supportive, positive manner deserve thanks. The helpful, friendly spirit of Rancho Bernardo’s citizens and business leaders will not be dampened, and this project will continue to move forward. The improvements will benefit all of us, even those who may be threatened by change.
Jeffrey John August
Rancho Bernardo

Letters in the News Chieftain

No letters this week.