Why Atherton tax is important Why Atherton tax is important (May 18, 2005)

By Alan Carlson

As the Almanac observed in an editorial last December, while "the town has been managed frugally during the last year," nonetheless" Atherton needs the parcel tax just to keep the doors of local government open." This is the bottom line for Atherton residents in the June 7 parcel tax election.

Over the last 10 years Atherton has had to pay for some state and federal mandated programs as well as some services once provided by San Mateo. None of these costs were previously imposed on the town. In addition, California's recent budget problems have had a direct impact on Atherton. As a result, the parcel tax has become even more important as the state continues to divert more property tax revenue away from local governments, including Atherton.

Recognizing early the financial crises enveloping cities statewide, Atherton has made $1.4 million in annual budget cuts and adjustments since February 2003. The town has fewer employees today than in recent years. Without impacting overall efficiency and response time to emergencies, the police department has been reduced from 32 to 27 employees, and some authorized positions have not been filled. Positions in other departments have been eliminated or consolidated as well to reduce costs.

If renewed on June 7, parcel tax funds will not be used to increase town government size or to establish any new programs or services. Instead, the revenue will be used as it is now. Currently, about 43 percent of the parcel tax is used to pay for existing town services to residents, including police services. The remainder is used for road and drainage maintenance throughout the town.

Whether you are a new or long-time resident, whether you are raising a young family or have watched children grow up in our town, there are things about our community that attracted each of us to Atherton. Our town has rural streets and traditional neighborhoods, unusual qualities in the middle of a major metropolitan area. Our town is secure and protected by a good police department.

Our town provides a variety of services, from well-maintained streets to a beautiful park and library. This is the character of Atherton. Your help is needed to preserve Atherton as it is now and for the future. I ask that you join me to support renewal of Atherton's parcel tax with a yes vote June 7 on Measure W.

Alan B. Carlson is a member of the Atherton City Council.

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