Has anyone noticed the state is operating at a deficit? Has anyone noticed Gov. Newsom tapping into state slush funds? Has anyone noticed the sales taxes most cities rely upon are not flowing in because there are fewer sales from fewer operating businesses? The money is drying up due to the government and bureaucratic response over the fear of COVID-19.
There will come a time, very soon, when politicians and bureaucrats will have to decide between reduced services or higher taxes. Generic politicians will choose both, with the financial burden being placed firmly upon the residents of California and the counties.Â
If your welfare depends upon a government program, that program will barely exist or will be eliminated. Look for public pensions to be IOUs rather than checks. Expect a furlough unless you are a politician or executive level bureaucrat.
The politicians are driving away all the high-paying corporations and wealthy individuals who could have softened the financial blow. It will be up to the citizens left behind to pick up the tab for political folly. Time to choose new leadership at all levels.
Michael Southern
Santa Maria
This article appears in Jan 21-28, 2021.
