Cuts costs, don’t expand gambling
To the editor:
We have just elected new senators, governors and political wannabe’s throughout the entire state who said that they could “Correct” our state problems. Now I hear and read that Mr. Scott is promoting the expansion of gambling in an attempt to secure more funds for the state. Instead of reducing our out of control costs, Mr. Scott is looking for another way to get into our pocket. State-promoted gambling is nothing more than a voluntary form of taxation. And worse yet, it takes money from our economy where we most need it. Retailers, charities, service providers, churches, you name it, everyone loses out while the casinos take money from those who can least afford it.
Modern day gambling has become an insidious beast. Casinos try to create an atmosphere which makes you think you’re recreating and have a wonderful time as they quietly strip you of your funds. The “chance” of hitting the “big jackpot” is pronounced before you in massive signage that flashes in bright led lighting that’s unavoidable at best.
So where am I going with this? Our state is in debt up to its ears because none of our state leaders ever look any farther down the road than the length of their arm and hand. For years and years they appeased situations by “throwing” money at problems. State and local governments gorged themselves in wages, perks and benefit packages that were inflated far beyond what the private sector considered everyday normal. It’s time for the taxpayer to take back what was taken from him over the years. We don’t need gambling and all of the hardships it brings with it! We need to cut state and local government costs by 35 – 45 percent. And I don’t mean in the form of laying off police and firemen. Reduce the costs and benefit packages, salaries and perk packages of senior administrative officers, secretaries and helpers. Then reduce the number of state and local employees. Walk into any state or local government office and look around for 15 minutes. Look at the inefficiencies and tell me we need all of those folks on the payroll.
Gambling is not the answer.
Efficient and effective utilization of the state and local labor force will go a long way to reducing our costs and debt. But that takes leadership, example and backbone, something I’ve stated in the past and say again…. state and local governments are desperately lacking in all three areas today.
Tony Silvain
Cape Coral