The Observation Deck

After raising water and sewer rates almost 13% last year, Lakewood is again raising rates another 6% for 2017!

I compared my water bill to a friend's who lives in Rocky River who has the same number of people in the house and I get sick at how much more I pay for the same amount of cubic feet.

Meanwhile, Bullock is hinting at an income tax increase. In this quote to his favorite PD mouthpiece, he says, in reference to the current 1.5% tax rate:

"We're now one of only three municipalities in the entire county who can say that," City Councilman Tom Bullock, who chairs the Finance Committee, said. "It's pretty rarefied company."

Oh, get ready for a tax increase! Lakewoodites apparently cannot enjoy a low income tax rate!

We pay one of the highest property tax rates in the county, we pay higher water and sewer charges than most other communities, so god forbid we enjoy a low income tax rate!

Get ready - it's coming.

Exactly Bridget! I can remember when we moved here we were charged about $35 per QUARTER. Now, it's more like $50 per MONTH.

Jerks like Bullock have shot themselves (therefore ALL of us) in the foot. Now that Cleveland raised their tax rate, our council's mouths are watering.

To hell with them.

Rather than say to hell with them, I will issue a challenge ... use your superior management skills, remembering your assurances that the Hospital deal would have little impact on the city finances, and develop a plan to use what resources you currently have at your disposal to get the job done. I know you can do it! Go fight win!

But don't even think about asking me for more money.

Good luck!

Paul