Do we really know how much we are paying in taxes? We probably think of taxes as income tax, property tax, sales tax and a myriad of other expenses.
Now, look at the other expenses that our "slick" politicians call "fees." As an example, let's take the garbage collection fee. We are told that because this is a service we receive, we should be charged a fee for it, and it should not be provided by tax revenues.Let's face it, this service used to be provided by tax revenues. When they started charging us a fee for this service, did they reduce our taxes? Not on your life.
This is a politician's way of taking more money out of our pockets without having to tell us they are raising taxes. Look for more fees in the future.
Now, let's talk about a real fraud the politicians are playing on us. Supposedly our taxes are less because governments tax businesses. Let me tell you a secret. Businesses do not pay taxes. Sure businesses are taxed, but where do they get the money to do so? The only way available to them, by raising the cost of their goods or services. Who pays the increased cost of these goods and services? You and me, the consumer. We are at the bottom of the chain. We pay for all of the cost of government.
I would encourage people to add up the cost of governments in taxes, fees and the additional cost of goods and services caused by taxing businesses, and ask if we aren't paying enough already. Don't let the politicians with their perks, privileges, aides and elaborate lifestyles bleed us dry.
Lyman M. Woolley
Salt Lake City