Las Vegas Sun

March 28, 2024

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It seems that some of the powerful people in Clark County have had some interesting things to say about growth and the associated costs. Because "it's obvious that growth is not paying for itself," some want to ask the Legislature to assist county government with new or increased taxes. The Nevada Resort Association immediately chimes in with, "We are paying more than our fair share. Who else pays 6 1/4 percent?" Someone else from the county adds that, "We have taken the property tax about as far as it can go." My head was already starting to spin, so I had to consult my own doctor to get a translation.

Anyone who has lived in this state for more than a month realizes that no state income tax is unassailable. There will be no income tax. So, what does that leave? The most regressive tax invented, the sales tax. And, what does it seem to me that our "leaders" are saying? Those of us that bear the brunt of the problems that unchecked growth has brought (and they will only get worse) are now going to be told to pay for it.

The population growth is being fueled by the casino boom, and it is my contention that the hospitality business is mostly responsible for both growth and its problems. They're certainly not shy about taking credit for Las Vegas' dynamic economy. How about some acknowledgement and acceptance of responsibilities? It's interesting that an unchecked growth in my body is cancer, but in Las Vegas, it's progress. There must be no tax increase for current residents.

Matthew A. Roman

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