January 2005 Newsletter To all the good Barron County citizens participating in the tax reform effort. In closing out 2004, it is gratifying to look back and see the accomplishment of reducing the counties spending in such a significant manor. Some would say we don't know exactly what effect C.A.R.T. had on the reduction in spending; and I would say to them, after eight straight years of double digit increases, what would have changed the trend other than pressure from their constituents represented through C.A.R.T. It is also rewarding to see and hear the support for our efforts. If the job were thankless, we would lack in enthusiasm and perseverance. So by now, everyone has their tax bill for 2004 and as all may see, the cost to operate the County and it's spending only went up by .3%. Truly significant, but still requires a watchful eye from our membership and a commitment for further reductions. I would like to add that these accomplishments were achieved through non-aggressive measures. Debate, factual presentations and huge amounts of research have obtained the desired results. I mention this because the other items on your tax bill did go up significantly and they need to be addressed in a similar manner. These items are of course the school taxation, a very touchy issue. One item that I would like to point out in this newsletter is the fact we're being taxed without representation for the Tech College in Rice Lake (WITC). In our local schools we elect a school board, in our universities we elect either county or state officials charged with overseeing the budgets of these institutions. However, WITC is governed by "The Technical College Board" and they set the tax rate for counties and communities. Positions on the board are by appointment and we as the electorate cannot change or remove them if we feel they are irresponsible. We need to look at ways to change this system. Once again --- it is your money! More to come on schools after our January 4, 2005 meeting. We'll be meeting at the VFW in Almena at 7:00 pm, please try to attend. We need your help and support in the coming year to continue our efforts for managed spending by our local governmental units. C.A.R.T. has enjoyed a nice bump in membership over the past three months and here's a big "WELCOME" to all of you. We still need to continue our Membership Drive because: More Members/Participants Means A Stronger Voice = More Strength & Influence = Change!! Respectfully, Ray Johnson C.A.R.T. Member Back to C.A.R.T. Newsletters and Meeting Minutes page.