Proposed 1% Sales Tax Increase

Dear Editor,

Charlotte County is using a noble cause to make you feel good about paying higher taxes.  Saying the proposed 1% sales tax increase is for schools is just a con game.  While the 1% must be spent for schools, a dollar is a dollar.  For example, when the 1% sales tax dollar goes for schools it frees up a dollar for County to otherwise spend.  No matter how it is sold, a tax increase is a tax increase.

Due to foolish spending Charlotte County already has much higher real estate and personal property tax rates than Lunenburg County.

If a child spends foolishly, is it wise to give them more money?  Our School Board is like a child with foolish wants when they chose to keep three separate elementary schools with excessive operating costs.  Key to that decision was the “want” to maintain Bacon District Elementary, even though enrollment is declining.  We all know the real reason the School Board will not close Bacon, but it is one of those things no one wants to talk about.  Why should we pay higher taxes for a foolish School Board to waste more?

If passed do you think the 1% increase will ever end?  Have you ever seen a sales tax decrease?  Virginia’s sales tax started in 1966 at 3% and has steadily increased.  If 1% approved, a 6.3% rate will apply to all except items subject to 2.5% food tax or otherwise exempt.  For a person with less who must spend all to get by, each additional 1% hurts.  Also, sales tax is now paid on on-line purchases.

Do not be tricked.  Tell our elected officials to stop the foolish spending.  Vote “NO” to higher taxes.

Terry Ramsey

Charlotte Court House