Nothing is Certain Except Death and Taxes

Shortly before his death in 1790, Benjamin Franklin famously wrote, "...in this world, nothing is certain except death and taxes." At tonight's Common Council meeting, this sentiment certainly rang true, as there was no doubt in my mind that there would be enough votes to place a $22 million referendum on the November 5th ballot this year. This marks the first time in Madison’s history that the Common Council has asked residents to approve a levy increase beyond what the state allows each year.

This year, the state permitted the levy limit for the city of Madison to increase by $9.7 million. As a result, on November 5th, residents will be asked to vote on whether to increase the levy by an additional $22 million, bringing the total to $31.7 million.

Levy limits in Wisconsin are a relatively recent development. The state first imposed them on local governments in 2005 as part of the 2005-2007 state budget (2005 Wis. Act 25). Since then, the law has included a provision allowing local governments to exceed these limits if voters approve it through a referendum. These limits are part of a larger trend where people want to be more careful with government spending and give taxpayers greater control over how their money is used. It's also about making sure that local governments are more responsible and answerable to the people they serve, by keeping government growth in check. Prior to 2005, local policymakers had the autonomy to determine the level of taxation without state-imposed limits.

While I voted "Yes" tonight to place the referendum on the ballot, this does not mean I support a tax increase. I voted "Yes" because I believe Madison residents should have the opportunity to decide on this matter themselves. Your vote on November 5th decides the future direction the Common Council must take as we work to balance the budget and control spending.