Today's Letters: Investigate cuts for new deputies

By LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Published September 10, 2007

Now, let me get this straight. The county commissioners will give Sheriff Bob White $700,000 to hire and outfit 10 deputies - but only if voters reject an increase in the homestead exemptions.

If we reject this increase, we will have 10 more deputies on the road? If we vote for the increase in homestead exemption we will pay less taxes. I would speculate that the referendum on increasing the homestead exemption would pass, and the commissioners would fault the voters for the loss of $700,000 and 10 more deputies on the road. Sounds like the commissioners, either way, are saying, "Not our fault."

If the commissioners want to cut the budget to the bone, then why don't they start at the top? Have every employee in top management (including the sheriff ) start by justifying their positions. They would have to state what would happen to the county, their employees and the citizens of Pasco if their positions were terminated or downgraded. Designate an unbiased commission for adjudication of that position.

I am sure there are redundant top management positions in Pasco County government that can be eliminated. We have lived in Pasco County since 1981, I have worked in government and at a large utility, and I know that a dedicated $700,000 for those 10 deputies should not be hard to find!

Bill Brings, Hudson

No matter beliefs, let's keep it civil

The month of September is filled with many important activities affecting not only the present but also the future of America. It is the start of the presidential campaign for 2008. It is the month when the long-anticipated reports on progress in Iraq are due. It is the month when there are several antiwar protests planned around America. It is the month of the anniversary of 9/11.

This September also could mark the beginning of heightened tensions in America. Both the left and the right of the political spectrum are geared up and ready to defend their positions. Americans in the middle, independents and the undecided, are taking a wait-and-see approach.

Wherever we, as Americans, stand (be it political or social or religious) let us never forget that it is because of America that we are allowed to be who we are and believe what we believe. Those who march for peace but who threaten others with words or innuendos do not understand tolerance. Those who speak of freedom yet threaten those who do not share their view of political/social/religious beliefs do not understand freedom.

This is a most important time for all Americans. To all of us, the right to dissent is given. There is no given right to hate or to harm or to harass. There was a time when intellectual discourse was the foundation of this America. We have strayed very far from such a principal; let us return.

Peno Hardesty, New Port Richey

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[Last modified September 9, 2007, 19:59:32]