Give it some thought and Vote!Here in Oregon where we vote by mail, ballots are in the mailbox! I won’t detail every little issue, but here’s how I’m voting on a few. Local School Levy: Yes. I’m frustrated that more of our taxes don’t end up in student-teacher contact, but many of the reasons for that are out of control of the local school board. I think the board has done a reasonable (not great) job of controlling costs. For the curmudgeons that always vote against any levy, or don’t have kids in school, or don’t see the value, my argument is simple – your property value and quality of life in a town like Corvallis is directly tied to the quality of the schools. Don’t be cheap. If you want to have an outstanding community, support the schools. If you think the schools are overloaded with administrative mandates, let’s talk about state and federal education policy. Which leads us to Governor… Oregon Governor: Ron Saxton. After many years of Democratic state leadership we have a moderate Republican who seems willing to try something different. Saxton doesn’t bring a hardcore social conservative agenda, and is much more likely to reform state pension programs than any Democratic candidate. Even Democrats have to be disappointed with the lackluster leadership of Ted Kulongoski. It’s time for a change. TABOR: No. The so-called tax payers’ bill of rights would limit government fiscal growth to the rate of inflation growth. I’m sympathetic to the concept, but our legislators should be held responsible to make these decisions within the changing environment of the state economy. Insurance prohibited from considering Credit Ratings: No. I’m a free market kind of guy, and I work with stats all day long. I can imagine many reasons why an insurance business might link credit scores to insurability. If it makes business sense for them to do so, they should be allowed to run their business in the most cost effective manner available. Term Limits: No. If the incumbent is doing a good job why would I want to put a rookie in the office? Let the voters decide. Other initiatives: Generally No. I believe that we need to hold our legislators accountable for results, and when in doubt to the merits of an initiative, I vote no. There are a couple I still need to study, but if I’m skeptical I’ll vote no. Whatever your view, here’s your chance. Be sure to vote. Michael Previous: Dangerous Ideas? -- Next: November 8, What then? |
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