Editorial: Hall residents feel the drill of tax increase - Gainesville Times

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Editorial: Hall residents feel the drill of tax increase

Big millage hike perhaps was inevitable, but leaders should focus on cutting out waste

The Hall County Board of Commissioners unanimously votes Thursday to approve the 2018 budget during a board of commissioners meeting in Gainesville. The budget includes a property tax millage increase that is expected to raise more than $8 million in additional revenue to cover increased personnel, court and public safety costs. - photo by David Barnes

0623TAXES 0019 — The Hall County Board of Commissioners unanimously votes Thursday to approve the 2018 budget during a board of commissioners meeting in Gainesville. The budget includes a property tax millage increase that is expected to raise more than $8 million in additional revenue to cover increased personnel, court and public safety costs. - photo by David Barnes

Times Editorial Board

Updated: Jun 25, 2017, 5:00 AM

Published: Jun 25, 2017, 2:41 AM

Tax increases are a bit like having a root canal at the dentist. Sometimes they’re necessary, though always painful. And if the dentist doesn’t work carefully, the agony is even greater.

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Editorial: Dissent should have a purpose

Americans can't expect political leaders to bridge a wide divide until we can find common ground

Protesters gather outside of a town hall meeting Wednesday held by U.S. Rep. Doug Collins. - photo by David Barnes

0810TOWNHALL 0007 — Protesters gather outside of a town hall meeting Wednesday held by U.S. Rep. Doug Collins. - photo by David Barnes

Times Editorial Board

Updated: Aug 15, 2017, 2:12 PM

Published: Aug 13, 2017, 2:57 AM

Put yourself in the shoes of a member of Congress for a moment. Yeah, it may feel icky, but play along. For this exercise, set aside your political leanings for a moment and imagine you’ve been elected by a constituency that supports your views by a healthy margin.

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