State Representative Frank Lasee Fails To Understand “Wisconsin Way”
I am rather old-fashioned when it comes to good government type initiatives. Efforts to bridge differences, and advance consensus type remedies for our larger problems in Wisconsin seems a winning strategy to me. When reasoned discussions replaces rancor I think we all win. And I have found that when people talk and explore options together a better understanding of the larger issues comes to light. I repeat, I am old-fashioned in this regard.
The latest such idea that intrigues me is “Wisconsin Way”, a grassroots effort to discuss solutions for controlling property taxes. A series of 15 sessions held all over the state resulted in 5,000 citizens weighing in with thoughts and concepts on this issue that seems to continually simmer in our political discourse. While we all recognize the wonderful roads, schools, and public services we benefit from as a result of living in Wisconsin, there is a need to evaluate the way we can continue to have these superior services, and not create financial hardships due to property taxes.
“Wisconsin Way” sounds like a winner, right?
Well, according to Wisconsin State Representative Frank Lasee this is all about “spenders” who have no real interest in allowing only so much growth in tax and spending. This response to “Wisconsin Way”, an effort where polite talking and addressing the needs of the state are placed above rants and rhetoric that are often produced in the State Assembly, is really quite remarkable. As an elected official I think it is the duty of people like Frank Lasee to open lines of dialogue and forge consensus. I think it is vital that we foster a healthy and robust discussion that brings ideas to the center so that solutions can be found.
Frank Lasee sees only higher taxes as a result of these meetings that now are in the second phase around Wisconsin.
Now I know that Frank Lasee was considering the idea of running for Congress. So perhaps we should deduce from his thinking, and his actions, that he is bored with doing the work that is required for the voters in the 2nd Assembly District. Maybe hearing from the average voter in these sessions is not exciting enough since he has Washington on his mind. Or perhaps seeking solutions ‘outside of the box’ is just beyond the capability of Frank Lasee.
By undermining the vision and hope of “Wisconsin Way”, ‘one-note Charlie’…err…Frank…..can only seem to repeat his anti-government message until there is no reason for anyone to listen to him anymore.
That time has arrived.
Technorati Tags: FrankLasee, WisconsinWay, Wisconsin, TedZigmunt
Read and study the result of the horrible idea of ‘Prop 13′ in CA, and I am sure you will agree that this idea does not mesh with the WI model of good government, and the standard of services that we want to continue to enjoy here. Good schools. roads, and infastructure are not free.
Perhaps we should address the tax rate that corporations pay (or don’t pay) along with the many tax exemptions (ATM machines) that are offered for the business community.
During the recent run away escalation in home values, a lot of senior citizens on fixed incomes seen their property taxes rise to a point, that they just had to move. Couples that never envisioned having to leave what they felt was their last home. It was tragic for many. This is definitely some that needs to be fixed during times like that. Maybe Wisconsin should consider a Proposition 13 initiative to protect people who have worked hard all their lives only to see their dreams slip away. There should be a freeze on taxes based on the value when the home was purchased and the escalation to present valuation occur only when the home is sold. With rising food prices and energy costs, the last thing they need is another thousand dollars added to their yearly expense.
Funny thing about that… The WW’s got a lot of big pushes, but foremost among them is the desire to provide the services people NEED without jacking up taxes. Sure, WW’s backed in part by a bunch of traditionally liberal groups, but it’s half backed by conservative groups as well… Wood Communications Group, Wisconsin Realtors Association and the Wisconsin Transportation Builders Association. It’s no surprise that kind of bipartisan cooperation gets someone like Emperor Lasee all up in arms: nothing threatens an obsolete demagogue like good, healthy public discourse.