There’s not a candidate on the planet who isn’t in favor of fiscal responsibility. It’s a focal point of national and state elections. Even in this city council race all of the candidates are running on a platform that values fiscal responsibility. That’s great but what does it really mean?
When Stacie and I first got married we did what most newlyweds do. We filled our new home with things we thought were necessities: a big TV, a fridge with a built-in water dispenser, couches and end tables and the whole 9 yards. And like most couples starting out we bought a lot of that on credit. Before long we found ourselves surfing balances from credit card to credit card, chasing the elusive 0% APR.
About 10 years ago we realized this wasn’t sustainable. We were creating a mess that was going to limit our future and be a burden on our family. Something had to change and so we began living on less than we make, paying down debt and building up a rainy day fund.
It turns out you can’t borrow your way to prosperity. This is as true with government spending as it is with the family budget. Recent city councils have realized this and have been good stewards of the city’s resources. That said, there is opportunity to do better. The current fire levy is a stop-gap measure in need of a permanent solution. Expenses for things like insurance continue to skyrocket for the city just as they do in the private sector. The city provides services and activities that make this a great place to raise a family but we have to balance infinite wants against limited resources.
As a citizen, I want the city to work effectively and efficiently, traits governments aren’t always known for. That’s why this election is so important. Come January, there will be 3 councilpersons who are brand new on the job. We owe it to ourselves to make sure those 3 have a firm grasp of the issues that our city faces and the will to lead us to continued prosperity.
PS – In case that title didn’t get the song stuck in your head – check out The O’Jays on youtube.
Joe Combs Thoughts on Harrison, Ohio 