Measure Q on the November 2 ballot gives Concord residents a choice between a temporary increase in our local sales tax (1/2 cent) or further, substantial cuts in city services and programs.
I don't think more cuts in city services is in our communities' best interest. I support Measure Q.
I do, however, understand that there is a small, vocal minority who oppose any and all tax increases – no matter how well justified – and who think cutting government spending will solve all our problems. I don't agree, but I respect their right to their opinion and their right to express it.
What I do not respect is fringe, conspiracy theorists who see anyone or anything that does not agree with their point of view as criminal, illegal or worse. These folks, let's call them wackadoodles, think a community education effort is brainwashing or think a public hearing is "fixed" if their side loses. They cannot imagine that it might actually be in the "public interest" to tell residents – not how to vote – but what the consequences of the upcoming vote on Measure Q will mean for their city and lives.
That appears to be why Bill Gram-Reefer of the Halfway to Concord blog filed a complaint about the City's mailings with the Fair Political Practices Commission a couple of weeks ago. He is upset that the City is informing residents about the importance of the upcoming vote on Measure Q and what is at stake. The mailings never tell people how to vote; only how important the decision will be and encourages them to vote.
Well, the Fair Political Practices Commission has looked in to the complaint and summarily dismissed it. Click on this to read the letter in pdf format.
"…it was determined that the mailers included with your complaint do not contain sufficient evidence to allege a violation of the Political Reform Act's prohibition against campaign related mailings being sent at public expense."
The City was copied on this letter yesterday. Elections can be emotional times. I don't seriously expect an apology. But I do want Concord residents to know that the information the City has provided to you is both accurate and legal. Please mail your ballot this weekend or show up at the polls on November 2.
Please note: I reserve the right to delete comments that are offensive or off-topic.