Letter: Restructuring of taxes needed

Friday, July 28, 2000 | 9:30 a.m.

Jon Ralston's column on the tax coup by Gov. Kenny Guinn gives an optimistic picture of tax policy.

On an interim basis, at least, a random tax increase for increase sake has been blunted.

The population and economic growth just in the valley alone dictates that a total restructuring of taxes is necessary. The archaic policy of taxing the gaming industry on the basis of how much burden the industry can bear is reaching the barrier of diminishing return.

A tax structure based on the infrastructure requirements for each industry, plus a surcharge of 10 percent for compassionate distribution, provides better accountability. As everyone else has to be accountable for fair-market value, the "state" will have to provide services at fair-market return.

The size of government or the amount of taxes is not the issue. When fair-market value of infrastructure is delivered for taxes rendered, the bigger the better.

When the economy pays more than fair value for services, then some in the community are deprived.

FRANKLIN M. TAYLOR