To the Editor:

I'm in favor of the annexation in general. A consolidation of the UVFD and the UFD should improve response times, improve fire fighting capability, and save cost by eliminating some duplicate functions. However, since residents of the City are already paying for the UFD through sales tax, I am opposed to paying an additional parcel tax. I am in total agreement that City residents and businesses should pay in the same as those outside city limits. To get my support, the City should either a) pay the equivalent of the parcel taxes on behalf of the city residents and businesses with the sales tax, OR b) reduce the sales tax to offset what will be paid in parcel taxes by property owners. It is not right for the City to enjoy a revenue windfall at the expense of the taxpayer. When Measures P (Police) and S (Fire) passed, City employees got significant raises. I have nothing against City employees, but the City does need to live within its means, just like all of us do. The Q&A from the City says renters will not have to pay the parcel taxes, but landlords will have to pass the cost onto their tenants in the form of higher rent. Businesses will have to pass the cost onto its customers in the form of higher prices. Those of us on fixed incomes or in the lower economic classes are already feeling the brunt of inflation. If the additional cost is a concern to you, please submit a protest form to LAFCO and attend the hearing on Nov. 8, if you can.

-D. E. Johnson, Ukiah