Jackson’s taxing problem

Miami-Dade County politicians, especially the commissioners, seem to have short memories and forgotten the recall of Mayor Carlos Alvarez. They also don’t seem to remember how many times voters have rejected their request for a salary increase. They continue to saddle homeowners with tax increases to repay bonds and now the upgrading of Jackson Memorial Hospital.

There are many undocumented immigrants and those who do not own property or pay taxes in the county who are treated at Jackson. It is not fair to continue transferring these costs to property owners by increasing property taxes, which are high already.

I remembered when Alex Penelas was mayor and a sales-tax increase was passed to help fund Jackson Memorial. Do the same now.

Fidel Ros, Jr, Miami

Read more Letters to the Editor stories from the Miami Herald

The readers’ forum

Find other options for Pets Trust

Last year, a non-binding straw ballot question was put to Miami-Dade voters that asked whether the county should raise property taxes to help fund enhanced animal services in our community. Voters strongly supported the question posed and the idea of saving pets’ lives. Unfortunately, the voters were given only one choice to make: raise taxes to provide for animal welfare or let the pets die. 1373581197
Rain, it’s free water

Re the July 5 Other Views column Desalinization could solve our water problems: Desalinization is one of the most expensive ways to obtain fresh water. Has the proponent looked out the window lately? There seems to be an abundant water supply coming from heaven. How about using some of it? It’s free. 1373581197
Egypt’s revolution

Instead of celebrating the triumph of a liberal and progressive movement in Egypt, the Obama administration and the media are not actively embracing this second revolution. 1373581197

Get the 5-Minute Herald
VIA EMAIL

Join the
Discussion

The Miami Herald is pleased to provide this opportunity to share information, experiences and observations about what's in the news. Some of the comments may be reprinted elsewhere on the site or in the newspaper. We encourage lively, open debate on the issues of the day, and ask that you refrain from profanity, hate speech, personal comments and remarks that are off point. Thank you for taking the time to offer your thoughts.

The Miami Herald uses Facebook's commenting system. You need to log in with a Facebook account in order to comment. If you have questions about commenting with your Facebook account, click here.

Have a news tip? You can send it anonymously. Click here to send us your tip - or - consider joining the Public Insight Network and become a source for The Miami Herald and el Nuevo Herald.