Let me explain. The rule of thumb for passing bonds and referendums is to:
• Present them to voters when the economy is blooming, not shriveling
• Offer an offset of some sort, that is, do something to reduce the impact of the new tax (such as the way Cobb Commission Chairman Sam Olens maneuvered last year to ensure that passage of the $40 million parks bond would have no impact on taxpayers' wallets)
• Make sure the proposal has the unanimous proposal of all members of the elected body that's proposing it.
Marietta's proposed referendum fails on all counts. The economy is still in the tank; it would cost the owner of a $200,000 house an additional $58.92 in taxes per year; and it is strongly supported by only two of the city council's seven members, although two others voted to put it on the ballot to give the public the final decision.
What do you think about the bond?
Do you plan to vote for it?
Does Marietta need to be spending $25 million on parks?
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