Let's set the record straight.
I did say that support of the arts is economic development. Just as we, the public, provide tax subsidies for private business in order for them to succeed in our community we also make room for a relatively small contribution to various arts organizations which add immeasurably to our quality of life. If you check the Arts Council's latest figures, you will find that our public dollars are stretched a long way in creating many jobs, lots of revenue that stays in our locale, and many terrific arts events that bring people out to patronize other surrounding businesses.
The few dollars that our city contributes to "social" concerns (remember, social services are the county's purview) help provide scholarships for kids to participate in the parks programs, or assist a qualified family to obtain a swimming pool pass, or assure the family health clinic can stay open, or supports an interpreter for new Americans integrating in our community. Even though city contributions are small they are important when organizations apply for grants as they illustrate local support.
It's disappointing when citizens don't understand that Moorhead's city staff does an excellent job of administering our tax dollars to gain an efficient, well-run, complex list of city services. Even though inflation affects every purchase and salary, and our growing city demands more of everything, and the Minnesota Legislature dramatically increased mandates on city funds without providing any increased local government aid, the Council was presented with a responsible budget with an estimated tax rate increase of 1.015 percent for 2006.
Our city staff deserves our appreciation.
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Diane Wray Williams
Moorhead City Council member
