Keep taxes and city spending under control: The Commission decided on yet another massive tax increase for JC residents this summer; we must keep these tax increases at bay!
Residents should not automatically be asked to pay more whenever City Hall wants to spend more. Johnson City needs disciplined budgeting, responsible capital planning, and a clear strategy for rebuilding its financial reserves without everyday residents paying the price for leadership mistakes.
As your Commissioner, I will push to:
- Walk back the tax raise related to the aquatic center project. Delay that project in favor of Freedom Hall repairs and a community-supported public-private partnership.
- Require clearer public explanations of major spending decisions and their prioritization.
- Establish a transparent, long-term plan for rebuilding city reserves.
- Scrutinize major capital projects before raising taxes to pay for them.
- Publish easy-to-understand information showing residents where their tax dollars go.
- Consider affordability trade-offs when evaluating fees, taxes, and major investments.
- Expand tax incentives and rebate programs for vulnerable residents.
