I have always considered myself a fiscal conservative. I distinctly remember, at the tender age of 16, receiving my very first real paycheck and how astonished I was when I saw the amount of money “missing” from that check. In the subsequent 11 years, I have maintained that initial aversion to taxes, but my conception of fiscal conservatism has been refined in that time.
I have learned that being fiscally conservative does not simply mean protesting every tax, no matter the cause. Being fiscally conservative means making responsible decisions with money, and I cannot imagine a more responsible way to spend our collective money, very little money at that, than to build a new county hospital.
Frankly, I am in awe that there is even a debate surrounding this issue. The cost to each individual is so small; I imagine it will be all but imperceptible to the vast majority of the community. And for this incredibly small investment, we receive a new hospital. A new, locally controlled hospital.
I honestly cannot think of a better use for our money than to make this much-needed investment, an investment in which the return is health and life. What could be more important?
This is not a matter of more taxes versus fewer taxes. It’s not really a question of taxes at all. This is an investment in Allen County, an investment in which the price is small and the gain is better health and a more viable community. It is an investment in the future of Allen County that will provide a tangible, direct benefit to us all.
The choice is literally an extra quarter or two in your pocket or an investment in something so vitally important as the health and well-being of our county.
Please join me in voting yes for a new hospital by approving a quarter cent sales tax on the ballot Nov. 2.
Sincerely,
Jeff Kluever
Iola, Kan.
