Citizens should weigh in on needs vs. wants

In last Sunday’s Editorial regarding the 2018 City Budget you ask, “How does the city pay for the needs and wants on the table?” The answer, albeit elusive, is contained in your question.

The first priority is to pay for the “needs,” and if there remains a surplus, then address the “wants.” That is the reason a budget is created. The devil in the detail is: determining the difference between the two. Has there ever been an item on a budget identified as a “want?” Doubtful.

Take quality of life issues such as public art, parks, theater, sports venues, etc. Are they important? Surely. Are they “needs?” Perhaps. However, they always are presented as a “need,” giving them the same level of importance as public safety, utilities and roads. You, the citizens, should decide if they are needs or wants.

And what about the needs? Do we need a new police or fire station? Maybe. Does it need to be constructed to last 50 or 60 years? Probably not. Technology will make it obsolete before the end of its life span. Time and money might be better spent addressing the shortfalls of the retirement systems that are on the verge of bankruptcy, for example.

The simple solution to all the above is usually more taxation. The correct solution is much more difficult — the prudent prioritization of existing revenues (budgeting). It is the responsibility of the electorate, of you the citizens, to tell your elected officials how you want your tax money spent. You direct your City Council persons who, in turn, give direction to the City Administration. Remember they are Representatives who you sent to act on your behalf and to see that your taxes are put to the highest and best use. BILL GRESSER Yuma