Our country is at a critical point in its history. We are in the midst of the Coronavirus pandemic, and as a result, we are facing uncertain and unlimited short-term and long-term economic impacts.
Due to the encumbrance of these circumstances, I would respectfully ask the Carroll County Board of Supervisors to postpone any action to raise taxes on the citizens of Carroll County. I would also respectfully ask that the Land Use Tax be left as is, until such time as the citizens and our county leaders have a better understanding of where this pandemic will leave us.
Our Federal Government is looking for ways to stimulate the economy through stimulus checks and small business grants and loans, in order to help alleviate the financial strain of a mostly closed economy. During such a time, why would we consider placing more strain on this community and the citizens of Carroll County?
I also ask that the Board of Supervisors gather different community leaders together to look at possible solutions to the financial issues we face as a county. When facing difficult situations, in my experience it is always helpful to seek the guidance of trusted individuals who have expertise that I do not possess, to come alongside and help find solutions to the problems that I face. I understand the supervisors have been elected to oversee the county government, including the budget. I also understand that when we come together and look for insights from people around us who see things from a different perspective, we often come up with a better solution for everyone. I believe the board, together with other community leaders, could discover a winning situation for everyone involved.
In talking with many tax paying citizens of Carroll County, there is a lot of confusion. People have honest questions and concerns that could and should be addressed. We are in a very difficult place right now financially in our county, and we are in a very uncertain place with the economy in the midst of this pandemic. People are understandably very unsettled right now.
I am asking that this request; to postpone any action to raise taxes or to make changes to the Land Use Tax; be considered before proceeding with the scheduled meeting and public hearing of The Carroll County Board of Supervisors on April 13th. Thank you for your consideration of this request during this critical time.
Respectfully Submitted,
Ronnie G Collins