Wednesday, February 11, 2009

Hey Buddy, Can You Spare Me a Million?

"It's called pork when it goes to somewhere else; it's meat and potatoes when it comes home"
Representative Emanuel Cleaver, KC Star, Feb 10, 2009.

Assuming the projects WL submitted to be considered under the Obama Porkulus Program are worthy and reflect a need for our community, what happens if we get zero dollars? How are we going to fund the needs the BOA and Mayor have identified? We are at the max levy unless the BOA decides to go to the voters and request and increase (could happen). Our franchise fees are set and I doubt we could expect any increased income there...we might even be vulnerable to less. Thought I would tap into the collective wisdom of loyal readers to assist the City fathers (and mothers) in creative ways to add revenue to the bottom line to arrive at the $21 million we requested from President Obama. Please don't suggest a fund raiser for the Community Center, Jerry already suggested that last year. Permit me to throw out an idea to get the ball rolling.

Pot...yeah, you know, weed. Cliff Village, MO recently passed an ordinance to allow a few ounces of hemp if prescribed for medical purposes. We have a number of licensed physicians who live here at the lake. Imagine what a draw it could have for those inclined to partake of the wacky weed. Sonoma Ridge would suddenly sell out, with outsiders eager to build homes in a city where a couple of ounces in your pocket/purse is ok, for medicinal purposes of course (wink, wink). More homes means more property tax income for the City. We (the City) could even open a pharmacy at City Hall to dispense a little sunshine to the populace. (I would kick out WLIC and put the pharmacy there, smack dab between the City office and the Police Department). See the potential? Another benefit of an occasional doobie is if we don't get the millions...who would care? Don't worry, be happy! We (the BOA) have dealt with tall grass and blazing yard lights, now is the time to manufacture some real legislation.
Okay...your turn.

2 comments:

Anonymous said...

Seeing that we're working on the entrances, how about a toll booth at each? I think Gomer's downtown still has a piece of the old broadway bridge booth. Maybe they'd donate it?

mike moratz said...

I like it, plus, if they were manned (or womaned) they would increase employment in the area as well...on the other hand, it would severly discourage passers-through, thus depriving us of much needed court revenue.