Letter: Let’s hope our legislators do the right thing

Friday, Jan. 24, 2003 | 4:20 a.m.

I have two words for members of the Clark County Republican Central Committee on their resolution opposing Gov. Kenny Guinn's tax plan: Grow up! They urge no increase in taxes even though, just to maintain the essentials, we need over $600 million. The good ship Nevada is sinking into the financial seas, and they are telling our legislators to stand back and watch.

In his speech, the governor gave a blueprint for Nevada and its citizens, especially the children. His tax increases are relatively modest, not a stake in the heart that critics would have you believe. On a $100,000 house -- about $52 annually -- less than five dollars a month, as well as taxes on alcohol (.05 on a six-pack of beer), tobacco and entertainment.

Nobody wants an increase in taxes, but what's the alternative? Should we cut services, stop transportation funding, pack our classrooms, cut or eliminate services for seniors and the needy, etc.? I just hope that our legislators carefully examine his proposals, and then have the courage to vote for them while ignoring naysayers like these Republican Central Committee members.

RICHARD J. MUNDY