Leonard at large 7/23

As a new public building was being proposed with a vote to be taken on it on August 5, that seemed to be in the distant future. However, that date is rapidly approaching -- in less than two weeks. This is a major decision for the future of Vernon County. This is an issue involving the voters of the entire county. We certainly are in need of a new jail and we need a countywide enhanced 911 emergency communications system. There is going to be a cost for both of these. Voters will have to decide if they want to make this type of investment. I am like most people, I do not like to pay taxes. Still I realize that it is a blessing and gives us services that we could not have without them. While many do not agree, I am of the opinion that sales taxes are the fairest of taxes. Many argue that it hurts the low income too much. Property taxes are paid only by those with property, which is also not fair. Sales tax will be paid by each one of us in proportion to what we spend. That seems fair enough. With this proposal, there will be a countywide law enforcement sales tax of not to exceed one-half of one percent. This is to be reduced by one-eighth of one percent in 15 years. This week the University Extension and Outreach is holding two information meetings and one is to be held next week to provide information on the needs and the plans for the tax proposal. Recently, I attended a meeting where the county commissions provided information on the proposal. The video that was shown, was well prepared and did a good job of explaining the need and what will be provided by the acceptance of the proposal. Certainly, the current jail, while adequate in the '60's, is no longer appropriate for our county. If we do not construct a new jail, our jail will be forced to be shut down. This would result in a much greater expense to the county than the construction of a new jail. We would have to pay for the transportation and the cost of going to other locations. We can keep the prisoners here cheaper. The proposal will provide enough beds, that we can contract with other law enforcement agencies and rent out space to them. This additional income will make the use of the jail more economically feasible. Having E911 will help to bring us into the 21st century. Many people moving into this area are surprised to learn that we do not have this modern system. The county commissioners have given much thought and study to the proposal. A few months ago, they held a hearing on the proposed county jail and the proposed E911. I attended the hearing on the county jail, but I had a conflict with my schedule to stay for the E911. You would think that something of this importance, there would be several citizens in attendance. Nearly everyone there were county officials, city officials, law enforcement people, ambulance personnel, fire departments representatives and those involved in the justice system. As the hearing was being held, I thought , "I bet everyone is wondering why Leonard is here." It is by attending hearings of this type that information can be gained from what the ideas that are being discussed and also an opportunity to express opinions. If approved the Public Safety Center will be located on a 6.5 acre site at the intersections of Business 71 and US 54 Highways. It needs to be at a location that is easily accessible and where the law enforcement personnel can leave rapidly. This is a much better location than what was first proposed near St. Mary's. One of the rumors I had heard, because of the location, several thousand dollars were to go for fill. This is not true, the big gully will remain. We need this type of facility in the near future. As a voter you will have to decide if this is the type of facility that is needed, if there has been enough long range planning that has gone into the proposal, and if this is the way to pay for it. There is a good brochure available, that will provide information about the proposal. It is suggested that you attend one of the information meetings, study the brochure, learn as much as you can about the proposal, and make your decision. It is important that you cast your vote and express your opinion. Your responsibility is to be involved in this democratic decision, by voting. This is a major decision for Vernon County.