Editor:
Paying for the fire department to respond to an accident because of the cost of oil absorbent powder is too simplistic. Comparing Pelican volunteer department with the city of Rhinelander 24 hour fully manned department is ludicrous. As a taxpayer, I don’t want to hear generalities and references to other anonymous departments doing it as support to accept this proposal. I want the facts of who, what, where and why. This is like an expensive banking added fee. I’m sorry but as a city taxpayer this is nickel and diming and I’m not about to be double dipped if I get into an accident. Before we restore the downtown area lets bring the taxpayer back to city hall. The idea that I have to be a taxpayer and in order to play ball I have to maintain my own ball diamond or if my son or daughter is in BMX racing I have to volunteer my time to provide adequate facilities and maintenance in the city park and yet pay city taxes and supervisory salaries. I pay city taxes and because of a hiring agreement the city administrator only works 3½ workdays since 1½ days was given to him for travel to his home town and the city was paying partial rent for when he stayed in town when working. How can we maintain control when it starts out with servitude? The city’s elected have to keep the administrator’s position in check since the position insulates itself from the concerns of the taxpayer. The position of the city administrator is to administrate and not to rule.

Spending has increased and the general fund has decreased. Our elected officials have to be less conforming and more critical and professional in defense of all the taxpayers’ interests.

Food for thought.

Craig Strid, Rhinelander