Fair is Fair

by Bonnie Donovan

Fair is Fair: All Merchants Must Collect and Pay Sales Taxes

If all the restaurants and retail establishments in the city were to set up tables outside their businesses and sell their goods for cash without charging any sales tax, the city would lose out on a substantial amount of crucial revenue for funding various public services and infrastructure projects. This loss in revenue could potentially lead to a strain on the city's budget and hinder its ability to provide essential services to its residents.

With over 100 vendors set up throughout the city how much sales tax revenue has been lost? Source: DYK Photographer

Moreover, the absence of sales tax on these transactions could create an unfair advantage for businesses that choose to sell their goods for cash. Other businesses that comply with the tax regulations and charge sales tax would be at a disadvantage. This could lead to an imbalance in the market and potentially result in some businesses struggling to survive or even shutting down, which would have a negative impact on the overall economy of the city.

Sales tax revenue is often used to fund initiatives such as public safety. Without this revenue, the city would face challenges in maintaining these essential services. Therefore, it is important for the city to ensure that all businesses comply with tax regulations and contribute their fair share.

In addition to the economic consequences, the proliferation of unregulated outdoor sales (aka sidewalk vendors) could also have negative impacts on the city's aesthetics and public spaces. The streets and sidewalks may become overcrowded with tables and merchandise, obstructing pedestrian traffic and creating a chaotic environment. This could detract from the overall appeal of the city, affecting tourism and local businesses that rely on foot traffic. 

Van on sidewalk. Photo: DYK Photographer

Sidewalk vendors park in red zones and rarely receive a ticket. Photo: DYK Photographer

Disappearing Recycling Centers

Another pressing matter that has caught the attention of the public is the burden of taxes and fees that seem to be continuously imposed upon them. This has resulted in a sense of being pushed down, as the government appears to be spending exorbitantly without considering the financial strain it places on the citizens.

One specific area where this financial burden is felt is in the realm of recycling. 

The state has implemented regulations and charges related to recycling, expecting citizens to comply. However, a significant number of recycling centers have shut down, leaving individuals with limited options for recycling their materials. 

Funds collected through these charges are apparently being redirected towards other projects. This misallocation of funds has caused frustration and disillusionment among the public, as they feel their recycle taxes are being misused. 

Considering these issues, it is crucial for voters to be aware and proactive. By voting out individuals who do not prioritize the needs and interests of the public, voters can bring about the necessary change. Additionally, it is imperative to reject any proposals for additional taxes, such as the proposed 1/2 cent sales tax increase. It is crucial for voters to see through the deceptive tactics employed by those in power and make informed decisions that align with their best interests.

There seems to be a pattern of demanding more from the citizens while not providing adequate transparency on how the funds are utilized. The pressure to comply with these financial demands can be overwhelming for many.

Tax free sales? Photo: DYK Photographer

Costs Raised Yet Again for Landowners

At city council this week, even though some downtown property owners said they never received a ballot, the City Council approved the Community Benefit Improvement District (CBID) during Tuesday’s meeting. At this same meeting, the Water Department presented its rate increases for the next four to five years.

It is a common sentiment to hear complaints about landlords being labeled as greedy due to the high rents on State Street resulting in numerous vacancies.

Mr. Ablitt's remarks during the CBID public comment shed light on the challenges faced by property owners. Despite providing ample parking spaces for employees and customers, he is still required to pay additional fees for downtown parking lots. 

This situation is further exacerbated by the fact that he is already covering the costs of maintaining the alley and storefront. Such financial burdens inevitably lead to the question of whether these expenses will ultimately be passed on to tenants in the form of increased rents.

The concerns raised by individuals like Jim Knell during public comments highlight the broader issue of property owners taking proactive measures to maintain their properties and surrounding areas. By investing in security services, and other initiatives, these landlords are already shouldering additional expenses to enhance the overall appeal and safety of their properties. 

However, the prospect of facing even higher property taxes as a result of the CBID, raises valid concerns about the potential impact on rental prices. 

A pertinent question arises regarding whether the cleaning and security services will be provided by private companies or city employees. It is important to consider the implications of both options. If private companies are hired, it could potentially lead to increased competition and a higher level of service, as these companies would have to prove their worth to secure contracts. 

Landlords such as Mr. Ablitt and Knell have been actively investing in their properties and the surrounding area by providing parking spaces, hiring security, and maintaining cleanliness. However, these efforts seem to go unnoticed, as they are now being burdened with the additional expenses of the CBID.

State Street Advisory Committee (SSAC) Meets

The meeting was held on Wednesday, June 26 and significant technical difficulties were experienced by participants joining via Zoom. Unfortunately, the meeting commenced with a complete absence of sound for the first 30 minutes. Eventually, Mr. Grumbine delivered a presentation, but the meeting then transitioned into smaller group discussions until 5:20 pm. Regrettably, during this time, participants were left waiting an hour for the meeting to resume. To compound the issue, no sound again and when sound was finally restored after approximately 25 minutes, it was distorted and difficult to comprehend.

Regarding the closure of State Street, a previous Public Records Request revealed that the city had spent over $3 million on this project at that time. However, the current expenditure on the closure is unknown; a new request must be submitted to obtain updated information.

Interestingly, there have been instances where architects generously volunteered their time and expertise to contribute renderings and ideas related to the street closure. However, it is disheartening to observe that their contributions were seemingly disregarded and marginalized simply because they did not align with the predetermined agenda.

The allocation of resources and priorities within the city administration raises valid questions about the decision-making process. It is perplexing that while there is a lack of funds to maintain neighborhood fire stations and provide prompt emergency services, the Housing Authority is pushing for the addition of more of their tax-free housing units (from the increased sales tax). 

The timing of these decisions seems questionable, as it appears that the city is prioritizing expanding housing options without first ensuring the availability of necessary resources. One issue is the potential strain on emergency services. If the city lacks the necessary funds to keep neighborhood fire stations operational, it becomes imperative to inform residents in those areas that they may not receive prompt emergency services.

Across America, One Step at a Time

Kyndal Ray Edwards, also known as A Walking Testimony, is a 31-year-old individual from Orange Park, Florida. He is currently undertaking a remarkable journey across America, with the purpose of raising awareness for mental health and recovery. This endeavor is not only a personal mission but also a tribute to those who have lost their lives to mental health issues and those who continue to struggle.

Kyndal's message is clear: everyone matters,

and recovery is possible.

A man and his message. Source: Kyndal Ray Edwards’ FB page

His journey began on January 1st, 2022, when he dipped his feet into the Atlantic Ocean at the Jacksonville Beach Pier in Jacksonville, Florida. Since then, Kyndal has covered an impressive distance of 3,292 miles diagonally across 13 states, reaching the Pacific Ocean in Long Beach, Washington, on April 12, 2023. This significant milestone also marked his four-year anniversary of being drug-free.

After completing the coast-to-coast trek, he embarked on a new leg of his journey: walking the West Coast. He explored various locations, including La Push, Washington, where he hiked all the beach trails, and Cape Alava, the westernmost point of the lower 48 states. He also made it to Cape Blanco, the second westernmost point. Currently, he is making his way to San Diego, the southwesternmost point of the lower 48, before planning a second coast-to-coast walk back to Florida. From there, he will head down to the Florida Keys, reaching the southeasternmost point of the lower 48, and then continue his walk along the East Coast until he reaches Lubec, Maine, the northeasternmost point of the lower 48 states.

By walking across America, Kyndal aims to spread the message of hope, resilience, and the importance of mental health awareness. Each step he takes is a testament to his belief that recovery is possible and that no one needs to suffer in silence: that they are not alone and there is support available. As he continues his walk, he hopes to touch the lives of many, encouraging conversations about mental health and fostering a greater understanding and acceptance within society.

•••

Tuesday June 25, he reached El Capitan State Beach where he camped for the night with four miles to go to hit 5,200 miles. When he awoke Wednesday morning, he started out for Santa Barbara, where he will stay for a couple days. Friday morning, Kyndal leaves Santa Barbara with his next stop in Carpinteria. Reach out to him if you see him. 

You can follow Kyndal on any of his links, and also donate to his cause here.

SB Current is a reader-supported publication. If you enjoy receiving our mix of daily features please consider upgrading to a paid subscription.