‘Politics as usual’ doesn’t work anymore
The politicians still don’t get it.
The people who will vote “no” on T-SPLOST aren’t against any tax increase; they are against one in which only a portion of the money will actually be spent on the traffic issue. The “selling point” that it’s better than nothing and that there will never be a Plan B that addresses the problem in a more acceptable way because those involved will never cooperate at this level again is unacceptable — not to mention outrageous.
I hope it doesn’t pass, and that voters frustrated with the situation will oust those who won’t cooperate in the future to come up with a plan to ease the congestion (rather than fund their own agendas). In the current economy, voters are savvy enough to tell the difference. Politics as usual isn’t working anymore.
TRISH SILVERIA, ATLANTA
Give transportation plan a chance to work
Most folks who are opposed to the T-SPLOST seem to be against a sales tax no matter what or don’t trust the government to spend the funds wisely.
I understand these arguments. I don’t like tax increases. Lord knows the government has its share of issues. But let’s face it: Traffic is not going to fix itself.
There is a lot of talk about the T-SPLOST being good for the region. That might be so. But to be honest, every time I’m stuck in my car cursing traffic, I’m not thinking about jobs or the region. I’m thinking about me. I’m tired of planning my day around traffic. If I can get home even 15 minutes earlier a day, that’s an extra hour a week I get to spend with my family.
The T-SPLOST on its own will not solve all our problems, but we have to start somewhere. I’m fed up with things the way they are and for an extra penny, I’m willing to give this a chance.
NED BLUMENTHAL, ATLANTA
Gambling would provide funds, jobs
Regarding “Stakes high for casino fans, foes” (News, July 19), the ones who are against gambling are the same “I know what’s best for you” people who tried to stymie Sunday alcohol sales.
The overwhelming majority of folks are for it because the pros far outweigh the cons in this situation. It would pump badly needed funds into worthwhile endeavors and provide jobs — all without raising taxes.
JIM HOPE, DORAVILLE
House seems content with broken system
Although in many ways, the Affordable Care Act is such a compromise that it has something in it to turn off everyone, those in the House who want to repeal it have offered nothing whatsoever to replace it — and seem content with our broken health care system as is, even as it spirals into the ground.
DEAN POIRIER, DULUTH
