To keep services, taxes are OK

Re “Pain of budget plan is widely spread,” Jan. 12

Where did Americans get the idea that the words “bad” and “taxes” always belong in the same sentence? We want schools, parks, highways, police, fire protection and a host of other things that make life more civilized. These cost money. That is why we pay taxes. I am not rich. I don’t want my tax money wasted. But I expect to pay to be safe, to have my children well-educated, to drive on good roads, to play in beautiful, well-maintained parks and to have all the other things that ensure a good life. If California is in a deep financial hole, raise my taxes. I’m willing to pay.

Robert L. Douglass

Los Angeles

California has a $14.5-billion deficit. The governor’s budget plan intends to drastically cut public services to make up for that deficit, crippling schools, parks and protection agencies. Endangered, according to The Times, would be renters, workers, children, the elderly and wildlife. The mantra of “no new taxes” persists despite the looming crisis. It’s time to wake up and pay for what we need. We don’t need to buy on credit, nor do we need to strip our state of its safety and beauty. We must be willing to pay for what we need. Rather than a dirty word, taxation means pitching in together for the common good.

Margaret

Baker Davis

La Verne

As I told my friends in the last gubernatorial election, if you want Democratic ideals, don’t vote for a Democratic-scented Republican, vote for a Democrat. Like the baby-friendly pit bull that suddenly turns vicious, as I expected, the governor has turned into a Republican.

So as the poor, elderly and disabled get left further behind, yacht owners can sleep calmly and securely in their staterooms. Don’t worry, there will be no new taxes.

Barry H. Davis

Agoura Hills

Re “Gov.’s proposal to close 48 sites angers avid users,” Jan. 11

Because of the prevalence of “No dogs allowed” signs on most trails, I’m not shedding any tears over the possible closure of state parks. Most state parks are already closed to me and my family. We enjoy hiking park trails with our dogs -- it’s healthy for all of us. But we aren’t going to leave our dogs home or in the car when we hike. State parks don’t want our business.

The majority of trails in state parks are suitable for leashed dogs, which pose no threat to wildlife or people. But the powers-on-high ban dogs. Why doesn’t the state park system solve its financial problems by adopting some user-friendly policies? More visitors mean more park fees and more public support.

Craig S. Harrison

Santa Rosa