It's Better To Give Than To Receive

 At this time of the year, as we are reminded that "It's better to give than to receive," the Tioga County Legislators have made it easier for us to do just that.  As of December 1, 2003, shoppers in Tioga County will "give" more in sales tax - an increase of 1/2 percent, from 7.75% to 8.25%. 

 Last month, the Legislators presented their 2004 County Budget. Tioga County residents will be "giving" 20% more next year. Earlier this year, the legislators stated we could expect a tax increase of more than 50%. They seemed to have saved us 30%, or was the 50% just a scare tactic? 

 The Legislator's final vote on the budget will be on December 9. According to them the budget is mean and lean and cut to the bone. 

  The main reason, according to legislators, for the 20% increase in our "giving" is the increase in mandated state programs like social services and welfare. 

 Now we can "give" so our legislators can "give" to those who can't or won't work for a living.  And for all their hard work in keeping the County Budget lean and mean, the legislators have "given" them self a pay increase. 

 It seems that although it's better to give than to receive, our legislators have figured out that it's best it's best to give and to receive.