Burdensome Taxation in Cobb County

As a long-time resident and community advocate, I've seen firsthand how decisions made by our county leaders impact our daily lives. From taxes to infrastructure, these issues shape the future of our neighborhoods and businesses. Let's dive into what's going on with the Cobb County Commission and why it matters to all of us.

The Stormwater Fee Debate: A New Tax in Disguise?

One of the hottest topics on the Commission's agenda is the proposed stormwater fee. Now, I've sat through countless meetings and pored over documents, and here's what I've learned: this "fee" is based on impervious surfaces on your property. In simpler terms, it's a charge for areas that don't absorb water, like driveways, rooftops, and parking lots.

But let's call a spade a spade. This fee looks an awful lot like a new tax. And it's not just homeowners who'll feel the pinch. Businesses, churches, and even our local schools could be on the hook for significant amounts. I remember talking to Sarah, a small business owner in Marietta, who's worried sick about how this fee might impact her already tight budget. "It's just one more thing to worry about," she told me last week. And Sarah's not alone. Many of us are wondering: is this really necessary, or is there a better way? 

Water Department Funds: A Leaky Situation

 Now, here's something that really gets my blood boiling. Our water department is turning a profit. Great news, right? Well, not so fast. Instead of using those funds to fix our aging pipes or improve our water system, the Commission has been siphoning off millions to balance the general budget.

Last year alone, they drained about $15 million from the water department. That's $15 million that could have gone towards fixing a leak or upgrading the treatment plant or sewers. It's like using your savings to pay for groceries instead of fixing your leaky roof. Sure, it solves an immediate problem, but at what long-term cost? 

The Real Issue: Spending, Not Revenue

Here's the kicker: Cobb County doesn't have a revenue problem. Our tax base keeps growing, new businesses are moving in, and housing developments are popping up left and right. So why are we still struggling to make ends meet? The answer, plain and simple, is spending. It's like that friend who always complains about being broke but never misses a night out. Our county keeps spending more and more without considering whether we're getting the best bang for our buck.

The Consultant Conundrum

One area where I see a lot of wasteful spending is on outside consultants. Don't get me wrong, sometimes we need specialized expertise. But more often than not, we're paying top dollar for work that our own experienced county staff could handle. I've talked to several county employees who feel frustrated and undervalued when they see their departments hiring expensive consultants for tasks they're more than capable of handling. It's not just about the money - it's about recognizing and utilizing the talent we already have. If we need additional expertise, why are we not contracting with a local Cobb County firm to help keep that money in Cobb?

Employee Exodus: A Brain Drain in Progress

Speaking of our county employees, we've got a serious problem on our hands. We're losing about 100 employees every year. These aren't just numbers on a spreadsheet; these are real people with valuable knowledge and experience walking out the door. Why are they leaving? From what I've gathered, many feel undervalued and underappreciated. It's a classic case of "you don't know what you've got till it's gone." Except in this case, we do know. We're losing expertise, institutional knowledge, and dedicated public servants. And the cost of constantly hiring and training new staff? It's not cheap.

Transparency: Shining a Light on County Operations

Let's talk about something near and dear to my heart: transparency. I've always believed that good government is open government. But lately, it feels like we're moving in the opposite direction. I've heard whispers about "secret committees" making decisions behind closed doors. That's not how democracy is supposed to work.

We, the citizens of Cobb County, have a right to know what's happening in our local government. Remember when the Commission tried to push through that land deal last year without public input? We found out about it in time to voice our concerns only because of vigilant citizens and a few brave whistleblowers. We shouldn't have to play detective to know what our elected officials are up to.

A Call to Action: Your Voice Matters

So, what can we do about these Cobb County Commission issues? First and foremost, we need to get involved. Attend Commission meetings. Write letters. Make phone calls. Let your voice be heard. I know it can feel overwhelming. Trust me, I've been there. But remember, every email, every phone call, every public comment makes a difference.

Our commissioners need to know that we're paying attention and caring about these issues. And let's not forget about voting. The upcoming election is your chance to shape the future of Cobb County. Research the candidates. Ask tough questions—including myself, Kay Morgan! And most importantly, cast your ballot. 

A Vision for Cobb County's Future

As I think about the future of our county, I see so much potential. We have a vibrant community, a strong economy, and some of the best people you'll ever meet. However, to realize that potential, we need leadership focused on the right priorities. We need a Commission that's committed to:

• Controlling spending and making smart financial decisions

• Improving transparency and engaging with citizens

• Valuing and retaining our county employees

• Investing in infrastructure and essential services

• Making decisions based on what's best for Cobb County, not political careers or pet projects

It's not just about solving today's problems. It's about building a foundation for a thriving Cobb County for generations.

Conclusion

Cobb County Commission issues may seem complex, but at their core, they're about how we want our community to function and grow. From the proposed stormwater fee to the use of water department funds, from spending habits to employee retention, these issues touch every aspect of our lives in Cobb County. 

As residents, we have the power to shape the direction of our county. By staying informed, speaking up, and participating in the democratic process, we can ensure that our local government works for us, not vice versa. Let's come together, engage with our commissioners, and work towards a Cobb County that reflects our values and meets our needs. After all, this isn't just about politics - it's about our home, community, and future. Vote for Kay Morgan on November 5.