Taxes & the Budget

March 14, 2006
 
Let me be very clear - contrary to those who would like you to think otherwise for their own political purposes, I am not advocate for tax increases. I would rather cut waste, raise non-tax dollars, limit employee costs and do about everything else necessary to make sure the City is fiscally sound for the long haul.

One of the purposes of this column is to encourage frank and honest commentary about the options available to our City leaders. I am hoping that City Council will keep an open mind to all the options available and actively consider them during this budget process.

Note to Novi Residents: Please take time the to watch the budget meetings in Council Chambers or on television. This is your money and City Council is a trustee of it. Hold them accountable and talk to them whenever you get an opportunity.

City residents should pay very close attention to the Capital Improvement Program (CIP) recommendations that come forth as a result of the budget process. CIP is where individual City Council members have some latitude to bring forward programs that are of special interest to them.

Also pay very close attention to the contribution amounts made to unfunded pension and health care benefits for retirees. Our city has nearly a $24,000,000 unfunded obligation. Ask to see the details and make up your mind for yourself.

What is the likely salary of our next City Manager? A Detroit News article stated Birmingham City Commissioners recently agreed on a new five-year contract for City Manager Tom Markus that will increase his pay by $25,000 the first year. Markus makes $127,521 and will receive 3 percent raises during the remaining four years of the contract, according to the commission, which wanted the salary to reflect the current market.

Anybody notice the number of ads on TV, in print and on the Internet for Dick DeVos for Governor? This is going to be one long and expensive campaign. DeVos, a billionaire businessman, is fighting an uphill battle against an incumbent who has strong appeal to the voters. DeVos will need to find a way to connect to blue color and minority voters who make up a significant voting block in this state.

It is not clear whether there will be any contested races for the seats held by State Senator Cassis, House Speaker DeRoche or County Commissioner Crawford. Each have significant leadership positions and have done a good job representing the citizens of Novi, the region and the state.

Recently, former Novi Mayor Matt Quinn spoke to City Council and asked them to reconsider their agenda to make it friendlier for those interested in making significant investments into the community. It would be another good step in making Novi an easier place to do business.

- Well done is better than well said.

Benjamin Franklin US author, diplomat, inventor, physicist, politician, & printer (1706 - 1790)