Cameras, taxes not what U.S. is about

I would like to add to the train of thought on this subject suggested by Harry Hitzeman in his July 5 column. The red-light camera scheme is only one example of ways in which Kane County government at all levels has lost touch with its constituents. Government exists only to do the bidding of the voters, and government has no role and no money but that given to it by the voters. Nobody asked the voters if they wanted red-light cameras and the automatic fines that go with them to enhance public safety. Recent surveys clearly indicate they are not wanted. End of story. Any county or local elected official who still thinks government has some obligation to hang on to this idea, despite the wishes of the clear majority, should be shown the door.

Our property tax situation is another example. Our property taxes are based on the market value of our homes. When market value goes down, as they obviously have over the past three years, so should property taxes. The idea that someone can change the math so our taxes still go up despite market conditions because government needs a certain amount of money is ridiculous. Kane County needs to tighten its belt in tough times just like everyone else. Some jobs and some worthwhile projects may have to be lost or postponed. Just like at home. What's wrong with that?

I consider myself a liberal on most social issues and strongly believe government has a role to perform where individuals cannot. But on this, I am with the tea party. There is no magic size of good government or things it must do. There is nothing inherent about government. The role of government is to put the money it has been given by the voters to the best possible use. No public official should be ashamed to say that we just don't have enough money for everything. Red-light cameras and changing the property tax formula so it yields more taxes even when property values are falling are classic examples of taxation without representation.

Richard A. Rosenthal

St. Charles