Can we save taxes and be environmentally responsible?

Kai Schwandes — Wed, 16 May 2007 21:48:32 -0400

Many people argue the Green Party is worse than the Democrats when it comes to taxes and spending.

Never mind in the last 6+ years under the Republicans we taxed low-income people disproportionally more (Health Care, Education, Gasoline etc., all hidden Taxes from a Green Party point of view) and spend more on the military-industrial complex (MIC) than at any time in our history.

Now compare this to the residents of New Paltz village, who will see their property taxes slashed at least fifteen percent under the 2007-2008 budget proposed by Mayor Jason West (Green Party). Services will continue at their current high level and the village infrastructure continue the steady improvement that has marked the last four years.

"I have been able to craft a budget that not only continues delivering high quality of life, but allows village residents to reduce their tax bill," said West.

"This is the result of four years of sound fiscal management and this budget maintains my commitment to a strong financial foundation the village can continue to build upon."

Since elected Mayor West's administration has accomplished:
* Built the first phase of a reed bed system to turn our sewage into compost rather than mix it with toxic chemicals and ship it to
landfills. We plan to expand our program to deal with almost 90%
of our sewage on-site with the reeds, at an estimated cost savings
of $30,000 per year.

(Note: Click the above image to see a larger, and readable, version.)

* Installed a solar panel array on the public works garage which has
generated 15,333 kW of electricity, saved taxpayers $2,299 and has
kept 16,743 pounds of carbon dioxide from entering the atmosphere.

* Are looking into building a 500,000 gallon per year bio-diesel
fuel facility which could supply every public works truck, fire
truck and school bus with a non-toxic, biodegradable fuel with 80%
fewer emissions, while generating thousands of dollars in revenue
each year.

Counter point: Privatize everything

Brainshrub.com - Green Party Taxes Environment

Can we save taxes and be environmentally responsible?