Tunnel vision will hurt Minnesotans Gov. Tim Pawlenty's opposition to a tax increase is based on the assertion that during hard economic times we need to cut spending to balance our budget. He likens this dilemma to a family cutting expenses at the grocery store, or cutting other "discretionary" items.
Decreased spending is one option available to families in difficult times, but it ignores the fact that many families who choose to cut expenses can also choose to supplement their income. Looking for second or third jobs to increase income is just as common as cutting expenses and is another valid way to tread water in today's economy.
Pawlenty, obliged to have a balanced budget, is ignoring this revenue side of the equation. Listen to the Legislature and responsibly raise taxes so vulnerable citizens of our state don't become victims of our politics.
AARON BOMMARITO, MINNEAPOLIS
Memo to '09 Legislature: Set building standards A family is suing over a child's death during the 2006 Rogers tornado, arguing that faulty construction is to blame (Star Tribune, Jan. 12). There was discussion at the time that "toothpick" housing construction was responsible for the death.
A St. Louis Park family and its original contractor are butting heads over a renovation project gone awry (Star Tribune, Jan. 11).
In recent years toddlers have been injured falling through flimsy window screens, new construction is allowed with sagging siding, and subsequent mold problems. A teen died from carbon monoxide poisoning from a new furnace in a newly constructed home.
Local jurisdictions do not have the resources to set standards for building construction and repair; it needs to be done at the state level. Roofing materials that last at least 30 years should be included in the legislation and a 30-year guarantee of the work/materials, along with a carbon tax on excessively large one-family residences.
