Opposing taxes isn't irresponsible

Recently, I and six other reform-minded commissioners on the Cook County Board sponsored a repeal of the recently enacted sales tax increase.

Unfortunately, President Todd Stroger and his allies defeated the measure in a 10-7 vote.

I was sharply criticized by President Stroger and his allies for putting forth what they called an "irresponsible" proposal. Their dictionaries obviously define the word irresponsible in a different manner than mine.

My position has been and will always be that Cook County should eliminate the waste and corruption from the budget instead of raising taxes.

To increase taxes $430 million each year to cover a one-time $200 million shortfall is absurd.

This tax increase, which will drive businesses, jobs, and residents from Cook County, will have a long lasting and devastating effect on our county.

It is important to note the $200 million deficit was created by adding 1,100 new jobs to the already bloated payroll.

I was not elected to appease political insiders like Daley and Stroger. Instead, I was elected to represent the interests of Cook County residents and taxpayers. I also understand when I stand up for taxpayers, I will be attacked for my actions.

Nevertheless, I remain undeterred in my support for lower taxes and the elimination of corruption that will lead to a more efficient county government.

Higher taxes is only one result of government corruption. Corruption impacts every aspect of our "quality of life" by diverting tax dollars away from vital services for our residents. Corruption leads to poor performing schools, diminished public safety and inadequate homeland security.

Politicians who support higher taxes so they can give out jobs and contracts to their friends and campaign contributors do so because they are allowed to do so by the people.

It is incumbent upon each and every one of us to hold our elected officials responsible for their actions.

If the voters continue to allow corruption to go unchecked, it will continue to grow and cost us yet even more tax dollars each year. Now that is what I call irresponsible.

Tony Peraica

Cook County Commissioner

Riverside