Republicans focused on restraining the excesses of government

Let’s be clear.  As Republicans, we understand that increases in property taxes haven’t materialized from nowhere.

They came because government isn’t living within its means.

That’s why we support a state spending cap and support giving voters a voice in local government spending projects.  The Indianapolis Star editorial board agrees.  The Democrats, however, have rejected giving voters a say and shot down spending caps.

That’s bad for Hoosiers because it sets us up for another property tax crisis down the road.

Republicans have set standards for success so we won’t have that happen.

• Immediate property tax cut by May 2008.
• Strong state and local spending caps.
• Permanent 1 percent of assessed valuation homestead cap.
• Remove schools and welfare from property tax.
• Make caps and levy removals permanent.
• Referenda for local construction and budget increases.
• School construction projects built on local option income tax.
• Fund all cuts with sales tax alone.
• Single assessment official in each county.
• Permanent elimination of homestead property tax.

Reasonable minds agree that the people should have a voice.  Why don’t Democrats?