is not how to fund the increase, but if the increase is really necessary? Adding 50 officers seems to be a significant number in my opinion. Is there a reason behind it? A large increase in crime statistics or current understaffing? That's a whole lot of people to train, pay and equip?

Carlee has proposed no changes to garbage fees or garbage collection, for now. His plan would increase the property tax rate by 0.43 cents, which is about a 1 percent increase.

Combined with recommended increases in water and sewer fees, the owner of a home with a taxable value of $141,100 – the city’s median price – would pay an additional $36.55 in taxes and fees annually.

The owner of a house valued at $300,000 would pay about $44 more in taxes and water and sewer fees.

1% property taxes = $2600 for me

was a 1% increase in the property tax rate rather than a a property tax increase equal to 1% of the value of a residence. That would likely cause some coronary attacks if that occurred.

but I've been a crime victim a few times also so I accept the good with the bad about police. They can be over zealous at times when they aren't needed, but when you did need them then they are good to have around. The best thing that people can do is not to give them any reason to take action even if does mean some inconvenience. There will still be some that abuse their authority, but the alternative to not behaving is usually a lot worse.

In fact we have voted 3 times NOT to have a police force

We can call the neighboring County Sheriff if need be - but that alternative is ever seldom done. Occasionally State Highway Patrol shows up on main st to enforce "Zero Tolerance". Usually 4:pm Friday afternoon to cite all the working stiffs coming home with minor traffic infractions such as expired registration or a signal light out. "Quota Building"