Here is VBO's ballot pamphlet argument against the tax hike that will be on the May 18 ballot:

Argument in opposition to Proposition 406

The Valley Business Owners (and Concerned Citizens), Inc. mission has always been truth in government.

The truth is:

* This tax is not about public safety.
* This is a scheme to divert funds already designated for public safety to make up for a staggering misappropriation of public funds.

It is already the town’s job to provide public safety. In fact, it should be the town’s number one priority.

Not long ago the town was swimming in money. In fact, one councilman said that if the council didn’t cut the property tax rate it would have more money than it could ever find ways to spend.

Unfortunately, stupid is as stupid does. Due to ill-conceived debacles such as $40 million for the Big League Dreams giveaway scandal, $28 million for the “Annex or Burn” extortion and tens of millions more in sales tax kick backs to Auto Dealerships and other fat cat cronies, the town now finds itself in a financial crisis.

Is anybody surprised?

The council squandered your money, and now it wants you to pay more. A 17% tax increase? When is enough, enough?

Keep in mind this tax will be levied on the bare essentials of life; food and shelter. To force Gilbert’s beleaguered families to tighten their belts because the council squandered more than a hundred million dollars is just plain unconscionable.

It is time we tell the town NO. It is time our elected officials do the job we elected them to do. Public safety is already priority number one. If it isn’t then we have a real problem with this council.

We do not have to designate a tax for a priority that already exists. VOTE NO on Prop 406. Tell Gilbert, “We are Taxed Enough Already!”

Paid for by:
Valley Business Owners (and Concerned Citizens), Inc.
8102 E Broadway Road
Mesa, AZ 85208
(480) 357-9753