March 18, 2008
From James Bell, Director DCTC

Hello,

Thank you for your support of the Douglas County Taxpayers Coalition (DCTC).

Last year was a busy time for us. We focused on the March 2007 $150 million school bond vote which voters approved. It’s difficult, but not impossible, to push back on school bonds. With the threat of over-growth, most voters saw an opportunity to attempt to stay ahead of the growth by building new schools.

In June the Board of Commissioners approved a $150 million Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST) referendum for a special election in September costing tax payers another $40,000 to hold the elections. DCTC opposed the tax on many fronts. We took our information to the public and encouraged voter to vote NO. The SPLOST failed by 168 votes. Basically, we turned what would have been a 2:1 approval of the tax to a slim victory. Thanks to all who helped to keep our taxes lower.

2008 is shaping up to be a very interesting year; the Georgia Legislature is fighting over taxes; candidates are lining up for the November elections and the economy is on thin ice.

This year, DCTC will be hosting candidate forums designed to allow candidates the opportunity to tell voters why they want to serve in Douglas County.

We encourage you to get involved, stay informed and attend as many meeting as your busy lives can accommodate. With your help and involvement we can keep our taxes as low as possible and ensure we are getting the basic services we expect from our government.

Thank you,

James Bell 404-452-4668

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