Gov Backs Tax Hike

From the Arizona Free Enterprise Club:

Napolitano Backs Two Tax Hikes as Arizona Economy Struggles ~
Sales tax increase would add $1.2 billion and property taxes another $250 million
annually in new tax burden.

Phoenix, AZ – Steve Voeller, president of the Arizona Free Enterprise Club, today warned
Arizonans to brace for a heavy tax burden in 2010. Against the backdrop of a slowing economy,
a $1.5 billion deficit next year, and billions more in total state debt, Gov. Napolitano is
supporting two major tax increases.

This year the governor vetoed a bill that would have prevented a statewide property tax
increase from coming back on the books in 2009. Without further action, a property tax cut that
passed in 2006 will return next year at a cost of $250 million a year.

In her veto message, Napolitano said that making the tax cut permanent would “be the
height of fiscal irresponsibility.” Soon thereafter, the governor signed a budget into law that
added $2 billion in new debt, including $1 billion in university construction that is financed by a
planned expansion of the Arizona lottery.

The governor is also the lead proponent of a new statewide sales tax increase for various
transportation projects, grants to non-profit organizations, and wildlife habitat preservation (the
TIME initiative). This tax would add $1.2 billion annually to the Arizona tax burden beginning
in 2010. The new state sales tax rate would be 6.6 percent (a 17.8 percent increase) and would
give Arizona the fifth-highest sales tax rate in the country.

“Arizona’s economy just had one of the worst quarters in recent history and an
unemployment rate jump not seen since 1991,” Voeller said. “The last thing we need now is
a tax increase.”

According to the Joint Legislative Budget Committee, Arizona personal income grew by
3.8 percent in the first quarter, the slowest growth rate since October 2003. On an annualized
basis, Arizona personal income growth ranked 42nd in the nation.

“You can’t tax your way to prosperity,” Voeller said. “What our economy needs now
is a freeze on all tax increases and a serious dose of spending restraint.”

Recent Press

For those of you who do not subscribe to our local news print, here are some recent articles in which I have been featured:

http://www.kingmandailyminer.com/main.asp?SectionID=1&subsectionID=1&articleID=16677

http://www.mohavedailynews.com/articles/2008/07/24/news/local/local1.txt

http://www.kingmandailyminer.com/main.asp?SectionID=1&subsectionID=1&articleID=16664

http://www.mohavedailynews.com/articles/2008/07/23/news/top_story/top1.txt

http://www.havasunews.com/articles/2008/06/27/news/doc48647913ef9d1165969932.txt

The articles are a bit informative, some of them full of (hopefully) typos. One of the articles attributes a quote to me that there are 15 new bills proposed every year...try 1500! Out of about 1500 bills proposed, only just over 300 become law. Still, in my opinion, more new laws than we need each year. As I mention in a previous post, the focus needs to be on enforcement, not new mandates and restrictions. If you have any questions after reading these articles, please leave a comment on this blog or shoot me an email.

Ciao!

AZ Capitol TV Press Release

15 May 2008

ACTV Can Be Seen Worldwide


We are pleased to announce that Arizona Capitol Television can now be seen on the worldwide web. Just scroll down on ALIS and click on ACTV and watch us anywhere you have internet access. Enjoy ACTV while on your vacation!

Arizona Capitol Television and the Legislative Broadcast Center provide as much or more services than any other similar provider in the nation; only Florida, Illinois and the state of Washington come close. And those three states have budgets of over $2 Million per year.

In addition to the closed circuit system covering all Senate and House Floor sessions, Senate and House committee meetings and other special meetings, the Broadcast Center provides live internet streaming and archival service of all the above.

And since March 14, 2007 Arizona Capitol Television has provided all of that and other self-produced programming on statewide cable 24/7/365. And now we are on the web as well.

The staff and I thank you for your support.
Ron Bellus

Fire Restrictions for Colorado River Area

Contact: Diane Williams 928- 505-1250 Office

Lake Havasu City, Ariz. – In an effort to prevent 2008 from becoming adevastating fire season, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) has announcedfire restrictions on 2.5 million acres of public lands along the Colorado River in Arizona and California.

Effective Wednesday, May 14, 2008, Stage 1 fire and smoking restrictionswill be enforced on all public lands within the BLM Yuma and Lake Havasu Field Office jurisdictions, and will remain in effect until rescinded. These restrictions are similar to those being implemented at this time inother areas of the State.The BLM is asking the public to use extreme caution when visiting publiclands this summer. Currently there are no plans to close any areas along the Colorado River area to public use.

The public is reminded that Stage 1 Fire Restrictions prohibit the following:

1. Open campfires, charcoal grills, and stove fires.
Campfires and charcoal grills are permitted in developed recreation sites or improved sites, where agency-built fire rings or grills are provided. The use of petroleum-fueled stoves, lanterns, or heating devices is allowed provided such devices meet the fire underwriter’s specifications for safety.

2. Smoking.
Smoking is restricted to enclosed buildings, within a vehicle and on a paved or surface road, within a developed recreation site, or while stopped in an area at least three feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable material.

3. Use of fireworks, flares, or other incendiary devices.

4. Welding or the use of any torch or metal cutting implement.

Violations of these restrictions are punishable by a fine of not more than $1,000 and/or imprisonment of not more than 12 months.

While BLM hopes the weather and dry conditions in the area will not necessitate issuing fire restrictions beyond Stage 1, if conditions for increased fire potential progress during this fire season, Stage 2, 3, and4 restrictions could become necessary. Stage 2 restrictions would prohibitany open fires, and limit off road vehicle travel, as well as use ofinternal combustion engines (such as chainsaws, etc.). Stage 3 restrictions would authorize partial closure of affected areas, and Stage 4 restrictions would call for total closure of affected areas.

National Wildlife Refuges in the area (Imperial, Cibola, Bill WilliamsRiver, and Havasu) continue to enforce year round fire restrictions.

For fire restriction information in Arizona, call Toll Free: 1-877-864 6985

Visit the website: www.publiclands.org/firenews

Mohave County Sheriff's Office Press Release

April 16, 2008

Mohave County Sheriff’s Office needs the public’s assistance in locating Jimmie Dean Futch, 49, of Dolan Springs. Futch was reported missing on July 10, 2007. He was last seen in the Dolan Springs area on Saturday, July 7, 2007.

A $1,500 reward is being offered in locating Futch. Futch may be a victim of a crime. The family of Jimmie Futch is offering $1,000 while Silent Witness is offering $500 for information in locating Futch.

If the investigation determines that Futch is a victim of a homicide, his family will also offer an additional reward of $2,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person(s) responsible for the murder of Futch.

Futch is a white male, 6’01 at approximately 180 lbs with hazel eyes and grey hair. Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Futch is asked to contact Detective Steve Parker, Mohave County Sheriff’s Office, at (928) 753-0753 or Silent Witness at (888) 227-8780.

HB 2132 is a Good Thing for Mohave County

MOHAVE COUNTY WATER AUTHORITY
Tom Griffin, Chairman
Maureen R. George, General Counsel
P.O Box 2419
Bullhead City, Arizona 86430

HB 2132 is a Good Thing for Residents of Mohave County.

The Mohave County Water Authority (MCWA) is pleased to announce the progress to date of HB 2132 through the Arizona legislature. This bill, sponsored at our request by Representatives Nancy Mclain and Trish Groe, makes available for full use by our members, Bullhead City (BHCj, Lake Havasu City (lHC), Mohave County Water District (MCWOl. Mohave Valley Irrigation and Drainage District (MVIDD), Golden Shores Irrigation District (G510), City of Kingman and Mohave County, 3500 acre feet of 4th priority Colorado River water. Our members unanimously voted in August 2007 to request this legislation.

Contrary to recent news reports:

(1) this is a very good thing for reSidents of the river communities as well as the City of Kingman, which would receive funds for water resource improvements. It does not take away the water, it in fact makes it available for all uses, including industrial.

(2) The water is currently under contract to MCWA and the contract with the Department of the Interior provides that it may be used for all municipal and industrial purposes. It is a State law restriction which imposes the industrial use limitation. The water has been available for industrial use for ten plus years and not one application has been requested. Our members are very concerned about the loss of this water if it is not put to beneficial use by adding it to the water portfolio of our various members.

(3) Members Kingman, BHC, and LHC already have a portion of their water portfolio used by industry and all are actively pursuing industrial development.

(4) The water has not yet been subcontracted to anyone.

MCWA, in 2007, was successful in getting this water under contract. We need to be sure it is put to the best use, as determined by our various member agencies through their eleeted or appointed governing bodies.

Mayor Mark Nexsen of Lake Havasu City, Mayor Jack Hakim of Bullhead City, MCWA Chairman Tom Griffin and Mohave County Supervisor Tom Sockwell have all testified at the legislature in favor of this legislation which has broadbased support in the water community statewide.

As noted by Chairman Tom Griffin: "This water is for use by our members and their citizens, not a special interest group. We ask these citizens to let our legislators know of their support."

AZ House Votes to Repeal Statewide Property Tax

House Speaker Jim Weiers (R-10)
News Release
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

House backs homeowners with repeal of property tax

(State Capitol, Phoenix) – The Arizona House today helped ensure homeowners in the state avoid a $250 million tax increase.

The House passed HB2220, which permanently repeals the statewide property tax.

Two years ago, the Legislature suspended the property tax for three years. The tax reappears if the Legislature takes no action this year. The bill, sponsored by House Speaker Jim Weiers, now moves to the Senate.

“While this bill helps our struggling economy by eliminating the tax on businesses, it is also for the small guy – by keeping Arizona families in their homes,” Weiers, R-Phoenix, said. “I do not want to see our homeowners burdened by this massive tax increase.”

Without action, property owners will see the tax return in January. At a time when foreclosures in Arizona are skyrocketing, this bill brings a little relief, Weiers said.

House Approves Ultimate Fighting (It's not what you think.)

News Release
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Ultimate Fighting bill gets Ultimate House approval

(State Capitol, Phoenix) – Fans of Ultimate Fighting Champions are one step closer to seeing the popular sport coming to Arizona.

The House passed HB2834 Tuesday, which directs the Arizona Boxing Commission to adopt a set of rules that would permit unarmed combat contests to take place in the state.

“This sport is undeniably the fastest growing sport in the nation and we are unable to host these action-packed events,” said bill sponsor Rep. Jonathan Paton, R-Tucson. “We have turned away this economic development opportunity for too long. It is time to give Arizona fans a chance to see the action live.”

Jiu-jitsu, judo, karate and wrestling are among the forms of combat that would be sanctioned under the rules adopted by the boxing commission.

The bill moves to the Senate for consideration.

House Passes Day Laborers Restrictions

News Release

Tuesday, March 11, 2008
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Kavanagh bill addresses growing day labor problems

(State Capitol, Phoenix) – Day laborers would be banned from standing on the side of the road seeking jobs under a bill passed by the House Tuesday.

HB2412 bans day laborers from standing on the side of the road, flagging down passing vehicles and helping to create a traffic and safety problem. Day laborers have been congregating in increasingly larger groups along streets, in parking lots, on sidewalks and on lawns.

“Too many people have decided that the best place to find work is along the roadside,” Kavanagh, R-Fountain Hills, said. “We cannot ignore the real nuisance and safety problems they create.”

They also stand in front of businesses, impeding regular commerce, Kavanagh said.

“These workers obstruct our streets and sidewalks while attempting to solicit work and prospective employers stop on the side of the road,” Kavanagh said. “Communities don’t need this kind of disruption.”

The bill now moves to the Senate for consideration.

AZ Free Enterprise Club Press Release

Gov. Napolitano Sets Stage for Property Tax Increase
Recent comments conflict with “no tax increase” commitment

Phoenix, AZ – The Arizona Free Enterprise Club, a pro-economic growth advocacy group, today called on lawmakers to pass the permanent repeal of the state equalization rate, which, if not passed, will increase taxes on all Arizona taxpayers next year by about $250 million.

According to The Arizona Republic, Gov. Napolitano told an audience of educators that legislative efforts to prevent this tax increase are misguided because the state faces billions in deficits.

“The governor’s support for this tax increase is a direct departure from what she wrote in her 2009 budget plan, where she pledged not to raise taxes,” said Steve Voeller, president of the Club.

In trying to sell the tax increase, the governor told the group that the tax equates to “two lattes a year.”

“Points should be deducted for unoriginality,” Voeller said. “When politicians justify tax increases by calculating them as lattes or steak dinners, they imply that we can’t figure out what’s really going on.”

“Property tax increases affect everyone, including those who can’t afford to drink lattes in the first place.”
“Property taxes continue to rise as valuations fall, so whether it’s one, two or 200 lattes, tax increases in today’s market will hurt everyone’s bottom line.”

“This is especially perplexing since the governor recently argued that people need help with their rising adjustable rate mortgages. Wouldn’t one way to do that include preventing property taxes from going up?”

MCSO Press Release

August 15, 2007
ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS – MOHAVE VALLEY

Mohave County Sheriff’s deputies arrested 7 illegal immigrants in twos eparate traffic stops on Wednesday (8/15).The first traffic stop occurred at about 11:30 a.m. on Highway 95 at Hammer Road. Deputies contacted three occupants inside the vehicle and determined them to be illegal immigrants with the assistance of Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The three subjects were transported to the Mohave County District II Substation where ICE will later take custody of them. The driver was cited for no valid driver’s license, failure to produce evidence of financial responsibility, unsafe lane change and impede traffic.The driver is identified as Felix Ramirel, 21, and the passengers identified as Salvador Guzman-Cordero, 38, and Julian Pacheco Robles,age unknown.

The second traffic stop occurred at about 12:30 p.m. on Highway 95 at Lipan Road. Deputies contacted four occupants inside the vehicle and determined them to be illegal immigrants with the assistance of Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The four subjects were transported to the Mohave County District II Substation where ICE will later take custody of them. The driver is identified as Fernando Perez-Morales, 23, and the passengers identified as Jesus Hernandez, 26, Roberto Perez-Morales, age unknown, and the four subjects’ identity and age is unknown at time of release.

http://www.co.mohave.az.us/mcso/
(928) 753-0755

Mohave County Sheriff's Office Volunteer Possee

MCSO PRESS RELEASE
August 9, 2007

Sheriff’s Volunteer Posse Celebrates 10 Year Anniversary

The Mohave County Sheriff’s Office Volunteer Posse (formerly known as Sheriff’s Citizen Action Team, S.C.A.T.), celebrates its ten year anniversary this month.

In 1997, shortly after taking office, Sheriff Tom Sheahan saw the need for a well trained volunteer unit to assist deputies with their everyday tasks and created the volunteer unit. From a small group of volunteers to over 50 strong today, the Sheriff’s Posse is an important part of the Sheriff’s Office daily functions. Posse members conduct property checks, vacation watches, transport prisoners and evidence. Additionally, they are called upon to assist with special events, patrol neighborhoods, direct traffic, assist with crime scene preservation and numerous other duties. Posse members receive formal training in an academy taught by Sheriff’s officials and utilize that training everyday. Posse member’s patrol throughout the entire county as needed.

To become a member of the Sheriff’s Volunteer Posse, you may contact Deputy John Slaughter at the Sheriff’s Office, 928-753-0753, extension 4509.

2007 State Budget Win For AZ Families

GROE NOTE: I do not agree with this perspective from the AZ Department of Commerce, a bloated government agency, but am including this press release to highlight a different perspective.

This week, the legislature passed and Governor Janet Napolitano signed into law Arizona’s budget for fiscal year 2007. It is a win for Arizona families, especially when it comes to jobs.

As you know, the scientific research, technology and innovation are keys to the future of the Arizona economy. This budget includes the $35 million 21st Century Fund, proposed by the Governor in her State of the State as Innovation Arizona. Its goal is to attract world-class researchers, accelerate the state’s technology market and bring innovative products to market. The result will be more high-paying jobs for Arizonans, and that will expand industrial growth and increase Arizona’s prosperity.

The Arizona Department of Commerce looks forward to the strong statewide collaboration in this endeavor. It will certainly move Arizona forward.

Gilbert Jimenez, Director
Arizona Department of Commerce
Our Job is JOBS!