To the editor:

I note that there is a proposal to raise our property tax to fund bike paths. There are also proposals to consolidate our police functions. Our schools have indicated they intend to raise taxes. I am sure the county will weigh in with something.

Over the last several years we have made commitments to numerous initiatives with continuing costs. We are redeveloping the former Farmland Industry property. We have rebuilt our library. We are funding an expanded T. We are funding part of the construction and the operations of a new recreation center. We have funded part of the purchase of the depot. We have committed to a “heritage” preservation effort. We have expanded our social services. We are committed to a major capital fund for our schools. I could go on.

When does the combined total of all our commitments lead to tax rates that discourage people and industries relocating here? If there is a limit, can we afford to keep pushing it near term? Have we developed such a short-term philosophy that we have little regard for those who follow us?

It would be a shame if in our haste to do “neat” things near term we mortgage our future to the extent that those who follow us will be limited in their opportunity to address their own real and unavoidable needs.