Re: “New state budget plans reflect Dem divide over taxes, reserves” (Feb. 23, A1):
Washington state’s budget has steadily increased in the past five years, outpacing the rate of inflation. Now our shameless legislators are trying to decide how to wring more money from Washington taxpayers.
Extra money spent on quality products is almost always a good investment, but we are not getting a good return on our tax dollars. I have an idea for Washington legislators: Before you ask for more money, show some competence. Maybe bring in a transportation project on time and/or budget, or fix the ferry system, or the schools, or child protective services. Find a solution to homelessness that is not a black hole of tax dollars with dismal results.
I’d be willing to pay higher taxes if I thought the money was well spent. It obviously is not.
Mark Stratton, Bothell
