Leave it at that.

Our beliefs and reality are sometimes very different and it is not my desire to conflict with yours.

So, until I have more concrete data to offer, let’s just keave it at that.

One argument for annexation, which I imagine you don’t agree with, is that the cost to provide services to the potentially annexed area is less than the increased taxes derived from that area. Ms Merriss’ document cites an approximately $ 700,000 increase in cost vs a $ 3,000,000 increase in tax revenue. The difference could be used to decrease taxes for the rest of us.

You said regarding elimination of “an entire department” -

“This was done as a cost cutting and efficiency measure and eliminated an entire department with its associated expense, which I would think you would approve of.”

No, I don’t think I do approve of it. If you are saying that increasing the residents of this city’s residents taxes by 20% is less than what it cost for one or two staff postions, then I’ll buy you a pitcher of beer at your favorite beer parlor in Decatur.

We agree in principal on the same thing: lowering high taxes in Decatur is desirable.

I also read in your statement that you are not sure what the city really intends regarding annexation. Again, we agree.

Mr Metro says:

” I expect if and when they figure out what exactly they want to annex, they’ll give us info on how it will affect the city’s makeup in detail.”

I look forward to anything that the city publishes on the matter. So far, what I have seen is disappointing, in my opinion.

I would like to add: Decatur Metro is potentially a GREAT RESOURCE for this city – as long as it promotes diverse viewpoints.

“If our officials are sincere about lowering taxes, why not drop it back to 40% like Dekalb and most other jurisdictions?”
Again, take it up with the City Commission.

“When I first moved here, Decatur had its own tax appraisal/valuation dept and since then, has outsourced it to Dekalb County.”
This was done as a cost cutting and efficiency measure and eliminated an entire department with its associated expense, which I would think you would approve of.

BTW, I am a 22 year resident of Decatur and have appeared before numerous City boards and commissions and have voted in every election since I have been here.

Thanks for your responses.

Just a quickie reply here to your question about how to reduce/hold the line on taxes which, as a 24 year resident of Decatur, let me be clear, I AM POSITIVELY IN FAVOR OF.

Of the theoretical ways you mention, a combination of the two is a third possibility. Reduction of City overhead is a fourth possibility.

A question that I’ll be looking into is, “Is the valuation for commercial property under-appraised?”

When I first moved here, Decatur had its own tax appraisal/valuation dept and since then, has outsourced it to Dekalb County.

Another significant tidbit about the early days: when the appraisal for tax purposes moved to Dekalb County, Decatur’s tax valuation went from 40% to 50% of appraisal.

If our officials are sincere about lowering taxes, why not drop it back to 40% like Dekalb and most other jurisdictions? Just a thought.

If you don’t want to hear what I have to say just hit the ignore button.

I will have my say with my elected officials when I am ready.

Thanks.