Every day, I listen to your stories. Stories of young couples trying to buy their first home, of entrepreneurs aiming to expand their businesses, of retirees working hard to ensure a comfortable life after years of service. And amidst these stories, one message comes out loud and clear: the weight of our current tax burden is too much.
Santa Cruz County is known for its community spirit, its resilience, and its dedication to the values that have made our nation great.
However, it's becoming increasingly clear that our current tax system is not aligned with these principles. Instead of facilitating growth and prosperity, it is becoming an obstacle.
High taxes hinder new businesses from setting up shop here. They prevent our youth from buying homes and starting families in the area where they grew up and they strain the pockets of every individual, especially those on fixed incomes who are trying to make ends meet.
I understand the importance of taxes. They fund essential services, maintain our infrastructure, and ensure our community remains a wonderful place to live.
But, ladies and gentlemen, there’s a balance to be struck. We must ask ourselves: Are our tax dollars being used efficiently? Are we getting value for our money? And most importantly, are the current tax rates fair to the hard-working people of Santa Cruz County?
It's time we reassess our priorities. It's time to streamline our expenses, eliminate waste, and ensure that every penny is accounted for and spent wisely. By doing this, we can provide relief to our residents without compromising on the essential services that make our county great. My vision for Santa Cruz County is one of prosperity, where businesses thrive, families grow, and everyone has the opportunity to achieve their dreams.
Lowering taxes is not just about giving people a financial break; it's about reigniting the spirit of entrepreneurship, facilitating homeownership, and most importantly, showing our community that their government stands with them, not against them.
To achieve this vision, I call upon my fellow representatives, community leaders, and every resident of Santa Cruz County to come together.
Let’s re-evaluate, re-structure, and reignite the promise of our great county. It's not just about lowering taxes; it's about building a brighter, more prosperous future for all.