Eastland Hopes to Add 400 New Jobs

[MiraculousMutha]

Eastland Awarded $1 Million Grant,
Will Add Hundreds of Jobs

Multiple businesses have committed to building new facilities in Eastland's planned business park, bringing 200 to 400 jobs in coming years.

The federal Economic Development Administration awarded the city of Eastland and Eastland Economic Development Inc. a $1 million one-to-one matching grant to help build water and sewer lines in the proposed 92-acre business park east of town.

Jerry Conner, executive director of EEDI, said Eastland was one of only three Texas cities to receive the grant. To get the grant, Conner and city leaders must have companies sign a commitment that they would come to Eastland if infrastructure was in place. Eastland officials also presented a detailed plan of how that infrastructure would be built.

Conner declined to say what companies are coming to town.

"This is a long-term project," he said. "It could be two years before we put a shovel in the dirt."

The total project should cost about $2.5 million. Conner said EEDI has 75 percent of its share in reserves already. The EDA will reimburse Eastland for half of all eligible work done, up to $1 million.

The next steps include completing engineering design for water and sewer lines to serve the business park, called the "Green Campus."

The site sits east of town along Interstate 20. The green title won't bar specific businesses. Instead, the focus will be to promote businesses cognizant of environmental responsibility.

"It will be a first-rate campus, sensitive to environmentally friendly and energy-renewable businesses," Conner said. "That means, if we have a choice between a company with four smokestacks and a company that builds solar panels, we're going to go with the company that builds solar panels."

Eastland Mayor Mark Pipkin announced Tuesday that city commissioners officially accepted the grant.

Terry Jones, president of EEDI, said that being awarded the funds during tight economic climes demonstrates Eastland's ability to remain economically viable.

Acting U.S. Commerce Secretary Dr. Rebecca Blank said in a news release that the grants are designed "to provide funding to local communities to enhance job creation, economic growth and competitiveness and make the vital infrastructure improvements needed to spur business development and job growth throughout Texas."

Austin and Gregory, near Corpus Christi, also received grants.

http://www.reporternews.com/news/201...t-will-add-of/

[rme]

Heaven forbid they operate an airplane or want water, right Mutha?

[PiggyDog]

Hooters finally!!?

[Happy JP]

Woo hoo

[morninglory]

Really need to fix the Eastland lake Dam before other spendatures

[rme]

Really need to fix the Eastland lake Dam before other spendatures

Why?

[marecanine]

I wonder where all the water for said development is going to come from? Seems like our supply of water is limited and that is not always guaranteed; Lake Leon can only hold so much water.

[pull this]

Really need to fix the Eastland lake Dam before other spendatures

Is the economic development bunch allowed to do that kind of work? Need to ask them, I dont think that is their thing.

[pull this]

I wonder where all the water for said development is going to come from? Seems like our supply of water is limited and that is not always guaranteed; Lake Leon can only hold so much water.

How much water is the new development going to require?? How much does the lake hold? how much can the water district purify? How much ARE they purifying compared to what they have the capacity to purify. How much of their allotment of water to be drawn out of the lake is the water district actually drawing out of leon? Ranger was trying to sell water to all points east of here a few years ago and no one said hardly anything, now there is worry about a few businesses the MIGHT move in here in 2-3 years? sheeeeeesh!!!!

[curious_george]

... Ranger was trying to sell water to all points east of here a few years ago and no one said hardly anything, ...

Quantify "hardly anything".

[Gearldean]

...Ranger was trying to sell water to all points east of here a few years ago and no one said hardly anything, now there is worry about a few businesses the MIGHT move in here in 2-3 years? sheeeeeesh!!!!

I beg to differ! Lots of folks disagreed with the idea of selling water to "all points east of here"! Most of us thought we should be more conservative with our water supply so our towns could grow rather than the selling it to neighboring counties so their towns could grow.

[Visionary]

I remember hearing people protest the sell of water as mentioned above....and I was one of them.

[MiraculousMutha]

Heaven forbid they operate an airplane or want water, right Mutha?

The federal economic development administration is contributing up to a million dollars plus another million dollars from the local economic development bunch plus the 200,000 dollars to buy the land for the new business park. Total two million and two hundred thousand dollars on an infrastructure project for a town with a questionable water supply. Add another hundred thousand for the airport runway extension that benefits the two personal jets that are there.

purchase land $200,000
development $1,000,000
airport runway $100,000
total $1,300,000

This group operates under a veil of secrecy and is overseen by the city council, the same people who claim they do not have enough money for their fire department. We can see the City of Eastland has their very own cash cow and the huge amount that we have been taxed for these people to waste. The voters voted this tax in without realizing what amounts of money were involved or that by doing so would jeopardize their access to water. The voters should contact their city council members and request that the removal of this sales tax be on the ballots of the next election. If they do not respond to the voters wish, new city council members should be elected who will do so.
The economic development bunch should be disbanded and the money returned to the taxpayers who spent it in Eastland by subsidizing our fire departments.

The wise will get out of the game while they are still ahead. The foolish will know they went too far only after they do so. At what point should we become concerned about the lake's ability to provide water for us? It is now at 40%.

[pull this]

The federal economic development administration is contributing up to a million dollars plus another million dollars from the local economic development bunch plus the 200,000 dollars to buy the land for the new business park. Total two million and two hundred thousand dollars on an infrastructure project for a town with a questionable water supply. Add another hundred thousand for the airport runway extension that benefits the two personal jets that are there.

purchase land $200,000
development $1,000,000
airport runway $100,000
total $1,300,000

This group operates under a veil of secrecy and is overseen by the city council, the same people who claim they do not have enough money for their fire department. We can see the City of Eastland has their very own cash cow and the huge amount that we have been taxed for these people to waste. The voters voted this tax in without realizing what amounts of money were involved or that by doing so would jeopardize their access to water. The voters should contact their city council members and request that the removal of this sales tax be on the ballots of the next election. If they do not respond to the voters wish, new city council members should be elected who will do so.
The economic development bunch should be disbanded and the money returned to the taxpayers who spent it in Eastland by subsidizing our fire departments.

The wise will get out of the game while they are still ahead. The foolish will know they went too far only after they do so. At what point should we become concerned about the lake's ability to provide water for us? It is now at 40%.

Brilliant!!!! SHEEEESH!!!!

[curious_george]

purchase land $200,000
development $1,000,000
airport runway $100,000
total $1,300,000

This group operates under a veil of secrecy and is overseen by the city council, the same people who claim they do not have enough money for their fire department.

Who's money is it? Is it money that would otherwise be available to the fire department? From the city's general fund?

[MiraculousMutha]

Brilliant!!!! SHEEEESH!!!!

...and then there is the $1.9 million dollars of federal and state funding that was spent for the airport runway extension.
Over three million dollars on economic development for a town with a questionable water supply. Large industry has not been turning us down because of the airport runway. They have repeatedly cited the water supply. You people have the cart before the horse. You should have spent that money on water, then the industry will come to you.

http://www.reporternews.com/news/201...-work/?print=1

[pull this]

...and then there is the $1.9 million dollars of federal and state funding that was spent for the airport runway extension.
Over three million dollars on economic development for a town with a questionable water supply. Large industry has not been turning us down because of the airport runway. They have repeatedly cited the water supply. You people have the cart before the horse. You should have spent that money on water, then the industry will come to you.



[[/url]

Again, Brilliant!! SHEEEEESH!!

[cyotefishing]

Again, Brilliant!! SHEEEEESH!!

ARRR! Me lad.

[rme]

The federal economic development administration is contributing up to a million dollars plus another million dollars from the local economic development bunch plus the 200,000 dollars to buy the land for the new business park. Total two million and two hundred thousand dollars on an infrastructure project for a town with a questionable water supply. Add another hundred thousand for the airport runway extension that benefits the two personal jets that are there.

There are two personal jets there? News to me.

purchase land $200,000
development $1,000,000
airport runway $100,000
total $1,300,000

This group operates under a veil of secrecy

Do you also write for the local newspaper? The paper made the same (false) allegation. It was fun seeing the EEDI response where they pointed out that all their meetings are open to the public.


and is overseen by the city council, the same people who claim they do not have enough money for their fire department.

The city has never said they don't have enough money to fund their fire department.

We can see the City of Eastland has their very own cash cow and the huge amount that we have been taxed for these people to waste.

A half of 1% is a huge amount?

The voters voted this tax in without realizing what amounts of money were involved or that by doing so would jeopardize their access to water.

Excellent attempt at fear-mongering.

The voters should contact their city council members and request that the removal of this sales tax be on the ballots of the next election. If they do not respond to the voters wish, new city council members should be elected who will do so.
The economic development bunch should be disbanded and the money returned to the taxpayers who spent it in Eastland by subsidizing our fire departments.

The wise will get out of the game while they are still ahead. The foolish will know they went too far only after they do so. At what point should we become concerned about the lake's ability to provide water for us? It is now at 40%.

Most of the state of Texas is under severe drought. Water supplies are dwindling everywhere. Yet, I haven't seen a widespread effort to discourage economic development state-wide. I think we're still open for business here.

The lake was last full in 2007. It has taken since then to reach 40% capacity. Do you go into a panic when the gas gauge in your car drops to 1/2? The biggest user of water from Lake Leon is one we have no control over. Evaporation.

[pianoman]

How much water does Eastland and Ranger use/ leak/ spill on a daily basis? And how much is lost per day due to evaporation?

[morninglory]

Obviously one of these days we will all learn "why". That dam has needed pretty serious work for a while now and it keeps getting put off. Dont have the money----- One day it will collapse and we will wish it had been repaired. It really is frightening and it is just one of those things that our officials choose to pretend doesnt exist.

[cyotefishing]

One has lost their respective seem's o" humor seem's.

[rme]

Rough numbers based on what's available on the web;
Maximum pumping capacity is quoted to be 2.8 million gallons per day. During August, I calculated the evaporation loss to be 5 times the pumping loss. Since the weather has moderated, it looks more like 2.5 times pumping. But, that's based on maximum pumping rate, which I doubt we're doing every day.

[rme]

Obviously one of these days we will all learn "why". That dam has needed pretty serious work for a while now and it keeps getting put off. Dont have the money----- One day it will collapse and we will wish it had been repaired. It really is frightening and it is just one of those things that our officials choose to pretend doesnt exist.

There's a minimal prospect of damage if the Eastland Lake dam were to fail. Think about how shallow the lake is and exactly what's downstream. TCEQ and the city are not going to allow a great risk to life or property to continue to exist. A few greens might become a bit tough to putt, though.

[pianoman]

I thought the dam was inspected regularly by the state to make sure it is safe. What repairs is it needing that the officials are putting off?

[rme]

I thought the dam was inspected regularly by the state to make sure it is safe. What repairs is it needing that the officials are putting off?

If I remember correctly, the state is wanting changes made to the emergency spillway.

[MiraculousMutha]

Who's money is it? Is it money that would otherwise be available to the fire department? From the city's general fund?

They can move it around if they want to, otherwise the voters can vote on it. They can vote for some new council members at the same time.
The problem isn't the drought, it's the unwillingness of millions of local grantwriting pork grabbers wasting money that should be cut from the federal budget to reduce the debt.
Texas' local republicans don't appear very conservative.

[Happy JP]

Which dang dam are we discussing? Eastland Lake or Lake Leon?

[curious_george]

Apologies for my ignorance but; who's money is it that they can move around if they want to? Where did it come from? Is it revenue transferred from the city's general fund/tax receipts or from grants or loans or something?

[curious_george]

Which dang dam are we discussing? Eastland Lake or Lake Leon?

Yes I'm pretty sure that is right.

[pianoman]

What repairs to the emergency spillway? Didn't it work like it was designed?

The emergency spill way isn't part of the dam anyway.

[olivia]

From what I understand the emergency spillway at Lake Leon didn't work during the flood of 07. I hope that is the spillway they are talking about.

[rme]

From what I understand the emergency spillway at Lake Leon didn't work during the flood of 07. I hope that is the spillway they are talking about.

First, we're talking about Lake Eastland.

Second, the emergency spillway at Lake Leon worked precisely as designed.

[MiraculousMutha]

Apologies for my ignorance but; who's money is it that they can move around if they want to? Where did it come from? Is it revenue transferred from the city's general fund/tax receipts or from grants or loans or something?

The money the economic development bunch is spending comes from an economic development sales taxes paid by all county residents who go to Wal Mart, and do other miscellaneous Eastland shopping, which is a half percent. The city collects another one percent. As it turns out, the economic development corporation is sitting on close to a million dollars.

[rme]

What repairs to the emergency spillway? Didn't it work like it was designed?

The emergency spill way isn't part of the dam anyway.

The state's concern at Lake Eastland has to do with the condition of the emergency spillway (which is part of the dam). Their concern is, if I recall correctly, that the spillway could give way under high flow.

[rme]

The money the economic development bunch is spending comes from an economic development sales taxes paid by all county residents who go to Wal Mart, and do other miscellaneous Eastland shopping, which is a half percent. The city collects another one percent. As it turns out, the economic development corporation is sitting on close to a million dollars.

And, since it is economic development money, where it can be spent is strictly limited. It's not just part of the general fund.

[curious_george]

The money the economic development bunch is spending comes from an economic development sales taxes paid by all county residents who go to Wal Mart, and do other miscellaneous Eastland shopping, which is a half percent. The city collects another one percent. As it turns out, the economic development corporation is sitting on close to a million dollars.

How can they move EDC money to purposes other than that for which the money was collected? Would that be legal?

[pianoman]

The state's concern at Lake Eastland has to do with the condition of the emergency spillway (which is part of the dam). Their concern is, if I recall correctly, that the spillway could give way under high flow.

Isn't the emergency spillway at the north end of the dam? The low spot in the road before actually getting to the dam? The morning glory isn't what we are calling the "emergency spillway" is it?

The emergency spillway would allow the water to eventually go over the road way in the low spot just north of the dam. Just like it did when the lake last flooded. Another spot the water would go over is around the polywog slew area.

[Gearldean]

Isn't the emergency spillway at the north end of the dam? The low spot in the road before actually getting to the dam? The morning glory isn't what we are calling the "emergency spillway" is it?...

He's not talking about Lake Leon, he's talking about Lake Eastland.

[pianoman]

He's not talking about Lake Leon, he's talking about Lake Eastland.

See, I really am ignorant.

[MiraculousMutha]

And, since it is economic development money, where it can be spent is strictly limited. It's not just part of the general fund.

How can they move EDC money to purposes other than that for which the money was collected? Would that be legal?

When the voters rescind the economic development tax, there is a provision for the money to be returned to the taxpayers. The best obvious place would be our fire departments.

The President's toughest task is cleaning up the messes made by the millions of local conservative porkers who spend money like it grows on trees. It would not matter if the administrators of federal and state agencies thoroughly investigated the questionable projects where this money is wasted, they will still approve expenditures for the sake of their own cushy jobs. All federal, state, and national economic development should be halted until the nations debt is paid off.

[curious_george]

I'm still not clear on the they who can move money around if they want to. I think you mean they can move the money around if voters vote to disband the EDC. How did the EDC come into existence in the first place?

[rme]

When the voters rescind the economic development tax, there is a provision for the money to be returned to the taxpayers. The best obvious place would be our fire departments.

Since the money was collected by an agency of the city, it would be returned to the city, not to various agencies. The city is doing a fine job of funding their fire department.

The President's toughest task is cleaning up the messes made by the millions of local conservative porkers who spend money like it grows on trees. It would not matter if the administrators of federal and state agencies thoroughly investigated the questionable projects where this money is wasted, they will still approve expenditures for the sake of their own cushy jobs. All federal, state, and national economic development should be halted until the nations debt is paid off.

Uhhh, how was the economic development money spent? It created jobs. Jobs filled by taxpayers. How do you propose to pay down the debt without revenue? Note I said pay down, not pay off. Paying off the debt is not advisable.

You sound like one of those bosses who say "Sales are down. Let's fire all the salesmen first."

[MiraculousMutha]

Paying off the debt is not advisable? People making money off the debt would not be in favor of that, but no debt would be the healthiest scenario for our economy. Plus high interest rates generate more federal revenue and mean less taxes.

Spend a fortune creating jobs and industry that could take years to recoup
vs.
Paying off our national debt and letting a healthy economy attract jobs and industry.
No one wants to invest in a company or country with problems...
Yes the city collected the sales taxes, which was paid by citizens of the city and the county who are being asked for more county tax money for fire protection. Since there would be no way to ask these tax payers to show up with sales slips to colect their portion of the economic development tax, the money should be placed by the city in an account dedicated to the fire departments.

How did the EDC come into existence in the first place?

They were created by and fall under the supervision of the city council. The voters approved the economic development tax to be added onto their local purchases. The city gets 1% and the economic development gets 1/2%. So if the economic development bunch has nearly a million dollars stashed back for the business park project, the city has surely been cleaning up not only on the city residents, but the county residents as well.
There is no reason why the city should be dunning the county for fire protection money when they have been robbing the county residents with sales taxes to fund projects that will jeopardize and shorten the water supply we all depend upon. Someday there may not be enough water for the fire department, then the problem will be solved.

[Gearldean]

See, I really am ignorant.

No, you just had your head in the clouds, lookin for more rain.

[dumpsterdan]

Questions for anyone that can answer them:

1. Did the city taxpayers in Eastland and Ranger pay for the construction of Lake Leon so that those two cities would have a water supply?

2. Do county taxpayers benefit from the construction of Lake Leon?

3. Did the city taxpayers of Eastland build a water distribution system and a sewage collection system that makes it possible for Wal-Mart and other businesses to build and operate in the city?

4. Do county taxpayers benefit from the construction of Wal-Mart and other businesses in Eastland?

5. Did city taxpayers pay for the construction of streets and for the street lights that make it possible for county taxpayers to shop in Eastland at night and to operate their vehicles on paved surfaces?

6. Do city taxpayers pay for the fire and police protection that county taxpayers enjoy while shopping in Eastland?

7. Did city taxpayers pay for construction of the runway and taxiways at Eastland Airport when it was built?

8. Do any county residents benefit from the construction and improvements at Eastland Airport?

9. Is it better to pay a half-cent tax in Eastland or in Abilene?

10. How about a cent and a half tax?

I'm glad some people choose to look forward instead of backward.

[pull this]

Questions for anyone that can answer them:

1. Did the city taxpayers in Eastland and Ranger pay for the construction of Lake Leon so that those two cities would have a water supply?

2. Do county taxpayers benefit from the construction of Lake Leon?

3. Did the city taxpayers of Eastland build a water distribution system and a sewage collection system that makes it possible for Wal-Mart and other businesses to build and operate in the city?

4. Do county taxpayers benefit from the construction of Wal-Mart and other businesses in Eastland?

5. Did city taxpayers pay for the construction of streets and for the street lights that make it possible for county taxpayers to shop in Eastland at night and to operate their vehicles on paved surfaces?

6. Do city taxpayers pay for the fire and police protection that county taxpayers enjoy while shopping in Eastland?

7. Did city taxpayers pay for construction of the runway and taxiways at Eastland Airport when it was built?

8. Do any county residents benefit from the construction and improvements at Eastland Airport?

9. Is it better to pay a half-cent tax in Eastland or in Abilene?

10. How about a cent and a half tax?

I'm glad some people choose to look forward instead of backward.

BRILLIANT!!! And I mean it his time!!

[Dave]

Questions for anyone that can answer them:

1. Did the city taxpayers in Eastland and Ranger pay for the construction of Lake Leon so that those two cities would have a water supply?

2. Do county taxpayers benefit from the construction of Lake Leon?

3. Did the city taxpayers of Eastland build a water distribution system and a sewage collection system that makes it possible for Wal-Mart and other businesses to build and operate in the city?

4. Do county taxpayers benefit from the construction of Wal-Mart and other businesses in Eastland?

5. Did city taxpayers pay for the construction of streets and for the street lights that make it possible for county taxpayers to shop in Eastland at night and to operate their vehicles on paved surfaces?

6. Do city taxpayers pay for the fire and police protection that county taxpayers enjoy while shopping in Eastland?

7. Did city taxpayers pay for construction of the runway and taxiways at Eastland Airport when it was built?

8. Do any county residents benefit from the construction and improvements at Eastland Airport?

9. Is it better to pay a half-cent tax in Eastland or in Abilene?

10. How about a cent and a half tax?

I'm glad some people choose to look forward instead of backward.

I do not live within the city limits of either city, but do pay taxes in both. I can't speak for anyone other than myself, but will give it a shot to answer your questions.

1. Yes.

2. I don't. My water does not come from Lake Leon.

3. Yes.

4. It seems to be a mutual benefit, I buy what I need, they make profit, and Eastland and/or Ranger collect taxes.

5. Yes, but there are some of the paved roads and traffic lights that are on state highways, so even the county dwellers have chipped in on some of the convenience.

6. Yes, but would you not pay for it if I went to Abilene or Weatherford? Seems that is more of a fixed expense required of the city, even if non-city people never entered your city limits.

7. I don't know. I would think that there were grants of some sort that we all chipped in on, but don't know the facts. Perhaps Miraculous Mutha or rme would be better qualified to answer this question.

8. Again, I do not know the answer except for myself, "no".

9. I would much rather spend my money in Eastland or Ranger. It benefits the businesses that employee our local people and benefits the city in which taxes are paid. As an ex-business owner, I know the importance of shopping locally.

10. See answer #9.

I'm not sure what you are trying to imply with your post, but sales tax is shared by city and non-city people. Property tax is paid by anyone having property within the city. Other than the properties I own within either city, I do not receive any benefit of water, sewage, garbage pick-up, pavement or anything else, unless I am in town spending money, which benefits the city, the stores and the employees of the stores.

[pianoman]

Dave, are you not on Morton Valley water?

[Dave]

Dave, are you not on Morton Valley water?

No, I am not. If I were on Morton Valley water, I would be purchasing the water and therefore the city of Ranger would be receiving money in exchange of services. The only people I know getting water for nothing are the residents of Lake Leon. Wonder how many of them are still pumping water straight from the lake to keep those automatic sprinkler systems going?

[cyotefishing]

No, I am not. If I were on Morton Valley water, I would be purchasing the water and therefore the city of Ranger would be receiving money in exchange of services. The only people I know getting water for nothing are the residents of Lake Leon. Wonder how many of them are still pumping water straight from the lake to keep those automatic sprinkler systems going?

There are alot of ppl that don't live at Lake leon all the time. It's their lake house and I too wonder how many water pumps are going set on a timer.

[JET]

I live on Lake Leon (have for 44 years). I have not pumped water on my yard since first of August. Also, I stopped using the "city water" on yard at that time. I think I have 3 dead trees. Shrubs look horrible.

I do hand water my 3 ferns and a couple of pot plants on porch.

BUT, the Lone Cedar golf course looks great. They are pumping water on that course everyday. Also, the landscape down at the condo looks beautiful.

I am definitely conserving water. two of my nearest neighbors are doing likewise.

[cyotefishing]

I live on Lake Leon (have for 44 years). I have not pumped water on my yard since first of August. Also, I stopped using the "city water" on yard at that time. I think I have 3 dead trees. Shrubs look horrible.

I do hand water my 3 ferns and a couple of pot plants on porch.

BUT, the Lone Cedar golf course looks great. They are pumping water on that course everyday. Also, the landscape down at the condo looks beautiful.

I am definitely conserving water. two of my nearest neighbors are doing likewise.

Lakeside has the most beautiful golf course fareways and greens BUT Jenny was aware of things long ago and they use afluent (recycled water)to water. Lone Cedar need's to do the same.

[pull this]

No, I am not. If I were on Morton Valley water, I would be purchasing the water and therefore the city of Ranger would be receiving money in exchange of services. The only people I know getting water for nothing are the residents of Lake Leon. Wonder how many of them are still pumping water straight from the lake to keep those automatic sprinkler systems going?

so where do you get your water?

[pull this]

, I do not receive any benefit of water, sewage, garbage pick-up, pavement or anything else, unless I am in town spending money, which benefits the city, the stores and the employees of the stores.

That money spent, in turn, benefits you, by helping providing a town for nice stored to open in, this allowing you a convenient place to shop. its a viscous circle

[Dave]

so where do you get your water?

I pray a lot. Totally depend on rainfall.

[pull this]

I pray a lot. Totally depend on rainfall.

hmmmmmm, oooook

[Dave]

That money spent, in turn, benefits you, by helping providing a town for nice stored to open in, this allowing you a convenient place to shop. its a viscous circle

Yes, it is a viscous circle. A circle in which the county folk contribute. We benefit, the stores benefit, the cities benefit. Why would anyone submit a post that may insinuate city taxpayers pay for everything and county dwellers are....? Again, I'm not sure what was being implied.

[rme]

Paying off the debt is not advisable? People making money off the debt would not be in favor of that, but no debt would be the healthiest scenario for our economy. Plus high interest rates generate more federal revenue and mean less taxes.

We'll discuss the rest of your post later, but, are you really suggesting that eliminating the national debt will result in higher interest rates?

[dumpsterdan]

Why do QUESTIONS have to imply something? Perhaps those questions will get someone to thinking for a change.

Think about this. Eastland County has a population of 18,583. 12,465 of those pay county taxes AND city taxes AND sales taxes at Wal-Mart and elsewhere. 6,118 live outside incorporated cities and pay only county taxes and sales taxes, but they get to use infrastructure and services that are paid for by the 12,465 who live inside the city limits of Eastland, Cisco, Ranger, Gorman and Rising Star.

Taxpayers inside the city limits of Eastland PAY for the niceties of life. They pay to build the infrastructure that is necessary to attract businesses such as Wal-Mart and the many nice restaurants that you see in Eastland. They pay for fire protection. They pay for police protection. They pay for a water system that is capable of providing services outside their city limits.

They pay for a fire department that fights fires outside their city limits, and the firemen continue to respond without hesitation, and the city taxpayers continue to provide those firemen with the best equipment they can afford. And when the city asks the county residents to step up and share in the costs of rural firefighting, all we hear is moaning, whining, and complaining.

And when the city looks several years down the road and anticipates future needs and provides for those needs by funding an economic development corporation, who screams and whines the loudest? Think about it. Who creates jobs in this county? Where is employment available? And why? Those jobs are available because someone PLANNED AHEAD. Those jobs are not available because of 1/3 of the county's residents paying a cent and a half per dollar tax. Those jobs are there because CITY taxpayers built the infrastructure to support the businesses that employ people. Even those outside the city.

If you want positive things to happen, you have to invest in the future, and that means spending a little hard-earned cash to get it done.

[MiraculousMutha]

...are you really suggesting that eliminating the national debt will result in higher interest rates?

Sure am. A strong nation with a strong economy will have a valuable currency. Certainly more valuable than what we have now. It will command a high price. The Fed can set it where they want, but would you sell a ten thousand dollar car for five thousand? I am in favor of making the sacrifices and building a stronger America than we have ever had. Business, industry, and growth will flock to us. No one wants to invest in a weak business or nation. The same applies to Eastland, which has already been turned down due to it's questionable water supply. We will have to curtail growth to match the water supply, or improve the water supply.

[pull this]

why do questions have to imply something? Perhaps those questions will get someone to thinking for a change.

Think about this. Eastland county has a population of 18,583. 12,465 of those pay county taxes and city taxes and sales taxes at wal-mart and elsewhere. 6,118 live outside incorporated cities and pay only county taxes and sales taxes, but they get to use infrastructure and services that are paid for by the 12,465 who live inside the city limits of eastland, cisco, ranger, gorman and rising star.

Taxpayers inside the city limits of eastland pay for the niceties of life. They pay to build the infrastructure that is necessary to attract businesses such as wal-mart and the many nice restaurants that you see in eastland. They pay for fire protection. They pay for police protection. They pay for a water system that is capable of providing services outside their city limits.

They pay for a fire department that fights fires outside their city limits, and the firemen continue to respond without hesitation, and the city taxpayers continue to provide those firemen with the best equipment they can afford. And when the city asks the county residents to step up and share in the costs of rural firefighting, all we hear is moaning, whining, and complaining.

And when the city looks several years down the road and anticipates future needs and provides for those needs by funding an economic development corporation, who screams and whines the loudest? Think about it. Who creates jobs in this county? Where is employment available? And why? Those jobs are available because someone planned ahead. Those jobs are not available because of 1/3 of the county's residents paying a cent and a half per dollar tax. Those jobs are there because city taxpayers built the infrastructure to support the businesses that employ people. Even those outside the city.

If you want positive things to happen, you have to invest in the future, and that means spending a little hard-earned cash to get it done.

dead on!!!!

[Dave]

Why do QUESTIONS have to imply something? Perhaps those questions will get someone to thinking for a change.

Think about this. Eastland County has a population of 18,583. 12,465 of those pay county taxes AND city taxes AND sales taxes at Wal-Mart and elsewhere. 6,118 live outside incorporated cities and pay only county taxes and sales taxes, but they get to use infrastructure and services that are paid for by the 12,465 who live inside the city limits of Eastland, Cisco, Ranger, Gorman and Rising Star.

Taxpayers inside the city limits of Eastland PAY for the niceties of life. They pay to build the infrastructure that is necessary to attract businesses such as Wal-Mart and the many nice restaurants that you see in Eastland. They pay for fire protection. They pay for police protection. They pay for a water system that is capable of providing services outside their city limits.

They pay for a fire department that fights fires outside their city limits, and the firemen continue to respond without hesitation, and the city taxpayers continue to provide those firemen with the best equipment they can afford. And when the city asks the county residents to step up and share in the costs of rural firefighting, all we hear is moaning, whining, and complaining.

And when the city looks several years down the road and anticipates future needs and provides for those needs by funding an economic development corporation, who screams and whines the loudest? Think about it. Who creates jobs in this county? Where is employment available? And why? Those jobs are available because someone PLANNED AHEAD. Those jobs are not available because of 1/3 of the county's residents paying a cent and a half per dollar tax. Those jobs are there because CITY taxpayers built the infrastructure to support the businesses that employ people. Even those outside the city.

If you want positive things to happen, you have to invest in the future, and that means spending a little hard-earned cash to get it done.

How many of the 6,118 living outside incorporated cities own property or businesses inside one of the cities? While it is true that the cities pay for the infrastructure, it is also true that the cities make a profit from the businesses because they are charging them for the services they are receiving. Police and fire protection would be needed even if the county dwellers never entered your city limits. I have no problem with cities planning ahead and charging an economical development tax. You sound as though you want to set up toll booths in town to charge all the non-city people to use the roads. Which, by the way, how many businesses are there in Eastland or Ranger that are not on State highways?

[Happy JP]

So those of us that are farmers and ranchers have no business expecting any type of service or anything from the city of Eastland? Would not make a bit of difference if we took our business elsewhere?

[curious_george]

Where are y'all readin' all of that? We all seem to be reading the same posts on the same thread yet reaching drastically different conclusions.

[rme]

Questions for anyone that can answer them:

1. Did the city taxpayers in Eastland and Ranger pay for the construction of Lake Leon so that those two cities would have a water supply?

Yes


2. Do county taxpayers benefit from the construction of Lake Leon?

Sure. The water is made available to many customers outside the city limits. In addition, there's the recreational aspects of the lake. And the number of homes that surround it.

3. Did the city taxpayers of Eastland build a water distribution system and a sewage collection system that makes it possible for Wal-Mart and other businesses to build and operate in the city?

Yes

4. Do county taxpayers benefit from the construction of Wal-Mart and other businesses in Eastland?

Sure. Abilene is a 2 hour round trip and almost $30.00 worth of gas away.

5. Did city taxpayers pay for the construction of streets and for the street lights that make it possible for county taxpayers to shop in Eastland at night and to operate their vehicles on paved surfaces?

For the most part, no. Most of the stores are on state-funded and maintained roads.

6. Do city taxpayers pay for the fire and police protection that county taxpayers enjoy while shopping in Eastland?

Yes, although the county does chip in a little.

7. Did city taxpayers pay for construction of the runway and taxiways at Eastland Airport when it was built?

Originally, yes. The last two major improvements were funded mostly by federal money from the Airport Improvement Program, with a small local match.

8. Do any county residents benefit from the construction and improvements at Eastland Airport?

Absolutely. The airport is available to all suitable aircraft, and is used extensively by people who travel beyond the city limits. It also serves air ambulance, medevac and firefighting users.

9. Is it better to pay a half-cent tax in Eastland or in Abilene?

10. How about a cent and a half tax?

I'm glad some people choose to look forward instead of backward.

Those of you taking offense are, I think, misinterpreting Dan's posts. He is pointing out that the infrastructure and services that a city provides benefits more than just those who live in the city, and that we all get some benefit from paying the sales tax.

[Happy JP]

Not taking offense just pointing out that we buy vehicles and a lot of large ticket items for construction that a lot of city dwellers do not buy. It amounts to quite a bit of purchase power and tax dollars I am sure. Don't sell us short on input to the city just because we don't live there.

[Dave]

Where are y'all readin' all of that? We all seem to be reading the same posts on the same thread yet reaching drastically different conclusions.

I guess I didn't realize how indebted to the city of Eastland I am until question 5 of post #46. The post indicates only the citizens of a city pay city taxes. Surely I am not the only non-city person that pays taxes to Eastland and Ranger.

[rme]

Not taking offense just pointing out that we buy vehicles and a lot of large ticket items for construction that a lot of city dwellers do not buy. It amounts to quite a bit of purchase power and tax dollars I am sure. Don't sell us short on input to the city just because we don't live there.

If anyone is "selling you short" it's MiraculousMutha with the assertion that you and Dave have been "robbed" by paying sales tax. You know that everyone who shops here does so because it benefits them, not because we are too stupid to go elsewhere. By the way, if we did go elsewhere, we'd pay their tax. At least here we don't have to travel far to be taxed. DumpsterDan wasn't criticizing you.

[Dave]

If anyone is "selling you short" it's MiraculousMutha with the assertion that you and Dave have been "robbed" by paying sales tax. You know that everyone who shops here does so because it benefits them, not because we are too stupid to go elsewhere. By the way, if we did go elsewhere, we'd pay their tax. At least here we don't have to travel far to be taxed. DumpsterDan wasn't criticizing you.

The quote below acknowledges county and sales tax. Seems the beef is that we get to take advantage of paved roads and infrastructure paid for with city property tax. I pay property tax in both cities can't vote in either. I spend money in both cities and pay sales tax. We need more businesses in all these towns. It benefits the county dwellers and the city residents.

[QUOTE=dumpsterdan;456102]

Think about this. Eastland County has a population of 18,583. 12,465 of those pay county taxes AND city taxes AND sales taxes at Wal-Mart and elsewhere. 6,118 live outside incorporated cities and pay only county taxes and sales taxes, but they get to use infrastructure and services that are paid for by the 12,465 who live inside the city limits of Eastland, Cisco, Ranger, Gorman and Rising Star.

Taxpayers inside the city limits of Eastland PAY for the niceties of life. They pay to build the infrastructure that is necessary to attract businesses such as Wal-Mart and the many nice restaurants that you see in Eastland. They pay for fire protection. They pay for police protection. They pay for a water system that is capable of providing services outside their city limits.

[MiraculousMutha]

If anyone is "selling you short" it's MiraculousMutha with the assertion that you and Dave have been "robbed" by paying sales tax.

Our lake is now at 40%. This time of year is not our rainy season.
The next good rains will be spring 2012. The lake will be at 10 or 20% by then as the cold winter takes a heavy toll with evaporation.
We now have people who are making serious sacrifices and the City of Eastland's economic development bunch is trying to lure in another 2000 people...

THERE IS PLENTY OF WATER
WE HAVE PLENTY OF MONEY (thanks to you)
LOL

[pull this]

Our lake is now at 40%. This time of year is not our rainy season.
The next good rains will be spring 2012. The lake will be at 10 or 20% by then as the cold winter takes a heavy toll with evaporation.
We now have people who are making serious sacrifices and the City of Eastland's economic development bunch is trying to lure in another 2000 people...

THERE IS PLENTY OF WATER
WE HAVE PLENTY OF MONEY (thanks to you)
LOL

Brilliant-absolutley BRILLIANT!!! You have a complete grasp of the situation!! Heavy evaporation in the winter???????? 10-20%% capacity?????? 2000 people??????

SHEEEEEEEEEEEEEESH

[rme]

Our lake is now at 40%. This time of year is not our rainy season.
The next good rains will be spring 2012. The lake will be at 10 or 20% by then as the cold winter takes a heavy toll with evaporation.
We now have people who are making serious sacrifices and the City of Eastland's economic development bunch is trying to lure in another 2000 people...

THERE IS PLENTY OF WATER
WE HAVE PLENTY OF MONEY (thanks to you)
LOL

Now you're just being silly.

[curious_george]

Now?

[rme]

Sure am. A strong nation with a strong economy will have a valuable currency. Certainly more valuable than what we have now. It will command a high price. The Fed can set it where they want, but would you sell a ten thousand dollar car for five thousand? I am in favor of making the sacrifices and building a stronger America than we have ever had. Business, industry, and growth will flock to us. No one wants to invest in a weak business or nation. The same applies to Eastland, which has already been turned down due to it's questionable water supply. We will have to curtail growth to match the water supply, or improve the water supply.

Where to start? You advocate eliminating federal debt. Doing so means we have no need to borrow money from Social Security, our citizens, or other countries. Therefore, the interest rate we pay is zero. Nobody profits from loaning money to the USA, so there is no additional tax to be paid. And, since there is no debt or deficit, there is no increase in the supply of money. The economy is stagnant, and will, in fact, collapse.

Stronger dollar? You think that’s a goal we should be shooting for. The strength of a currency is a reflection of two factors (I’ll simplify here): risk and desirability. The US dollar is desirable because the risk of our defaulting on our obligations is nil. Although our total debt is large, our deficits are not. We are more than able to service our debt and are in no danger of stiffing our creditors. We are not Greece. The dollar is also desirable because it is the currency of international trade. Most large transactions are conducted in dollars.

Because of this, a very strong dollar works against us. As other countries have to pony up more and more of their currency to buy a dollar, it drives their cost up and their production will decline because they can’t afford to import things. If it gets too far out of whack, arbitrage will occur, which will, by simple supply and demand, force the dollar down and elevate the other currencies. Alternatively, the OPEC nations, in response to lower oil sales, could choose to accept payment in other than dollars, which would cause the dollar to be devalued.

A strong dollar also makes importing items cheaper while making exporting our goods and services far more expensive. That is hardly the way to get business and industry to flock to us. Quite the contrary.

Finally, let’s assume we choose to pay off the debt in total. Debt is currently around $12 Trillion. Because of the way fractional reserve banking works, we would have to shrink the money supply by $120 Trillion. The government doesn’t publish M3 (total money supply) numbers anymore, but I’ll estimate that $120 Trillion is about 75% of the total money supply. That means that everything must cost 75% less than it does now, and that everything is worth 75% less. But, only here in the USA.

I agree that our current debt needs to be reduced. But, I disagree that debt is to be eliminated completely.

[rme]

... The same applies to Eastland, which has already been turned down due to it's questionable water supply.

Exactly who or what company has "turned down" Eastland, citing water?

[Julie]

I know I'm late to the party here, but thought I'd throw in my 2 cents..

There are a segment of people who have been ignored in all these posts... those outside the county (me, for instance). I-20 makes the area appealing to those who live outside the county and even outside the state. Without those people outside the city and county coming to shop, the city wouldn't need as much infrastructure, police and fire protection simply because most of the businesses out around I-20 wouldn't be there. If the businesses in town had only the locals to rely on, there wouldn't be many businesses, and definitely not a semi-super Walmart. Check out towns that are very close to the same size as Eastland... Dublin, Whitesboro, Post and neighboring Cisco. None with a Walmart or the offshoot of businesses that thrive on Walmart traffic.

Those economic development people are always looking for money out there for which they will be eligible so they can develop areas at basically a discount rate. I don't have a problem with that at all. Look at the direction Eastland has been going. Take a snapshot of it compared to 20 or 30 years ago. Visiting in the late 70's and early 80's, the town rolled up the streets at 6 p.m. still (maybe it was 8, but I remember there wasn't much late shopping and not many choices on places to shop).

The water situation is not desirable, but it isn't near doomsday yet. I'm not sure what Miraculous Mutha's solution for the lack of water is. But I would like to hear it.

The issue with the fire department has not been that Eastland can't afford to pay for their fire department, it has been that they feel (as fire departments in the other towns do) the county should pay for the services they use. That's it.

County dollars collected as sales tax at local stores blend in with those local funds as well as those from out of the county and out of the state collected the same way. It happens the same way in any municipality that has retail business and a local sales tax. That money doesn't have a section that is earmarked for "emergency services" and there is no tally as to how much came from a local resident, a county resident, etc. Sales tax collected by the city is the fuel that keeps all the city entities going. You cannot assume that simply because people from outside the city shop at local businesses they have chipped in more than their fair share to cover the cost of emergency services to their part of the county. Their share is also having to be divided up among other services that they use while shopping at those businesses.

When the question was asked about the benefits these businesses, airport runways, and the lake have for those who live outside that immediate area, I think everyone looks at it as just what they personally use. The fact is that all these amenities offer jobs, places to shop that are closer than going to the big city, places for recreation, and the ability to offer those who may look at the area as a potential location for their business things other towns may not have. It's hard to sell something you're gonna do if they set up shop here. It's much easier to sell stuff you already have. And... those guys who use that runway extension... how many people do they hire? How much do those who are hired and those who own it spend in the area? How many business people visit our area because of that business? Do they eat while they are here? Sleep somewhere?

My point is that even those who don't use the local Walmart, the lake, the streets of Eastland, or own a jet, still typically get some benefit for having those things close by.

Geesh.. went on too long... again. You'd think I get paid by the word or something.

[pull this]

Great post, Julie!!!!

[Happy JP]

I can understand the other cities having a need for more support. But, I have always understood from my association with other cities that have a county seat, that the county seat is an asset to business and tax revenue, not saying that any dollars allocated to fire or response groups are adequate. It just seems that if we are going to spread the funds the higher amounts should go to areas without the large tax dollars.

[pull this]

I can understand the other cities having a need for more support. But, I have always understood from my association with other cities that have a county seat, that the county seat is an asset to business and tax revenue, not saying that any dollars allocated to fire or response groups are adequate. It just seems that if we are going to spread the funds the higher amounts should go to areas without the large tax dollars.

Would it be possible to fund things based on actual cost? Just pay for what is used?

[Julie]

I can understand the other cities having a need for more support. But, I have always understood from my association with other cities that have a county seat, that the county seat is an asset to business and tax revenue, not saying that any dollars allocated to fire or response groups are adequate. It just seems that if we are going to spread the funds the higher amounts should go to areas without the large tax dollars.

Ahh.. the Robin Hood plan, right?

[Happy JP]

Well, I don't know the merry men but I do like the actual cost thing. It is a shame though that these deals get so complicated.

[TexasT]

You'd think!!

[MiraculousMutha]

I'm not sure what Miraculous Mutha's solution for the lack of water is. But I would like to hear it.

I have developed an effective and viable long term solution to Eastland's water situation that will perpetuate growth for the future.
I have also decided not to share it unless the President is reelected.

[pianoman]

I have developed an effective and viable long term solution to Eastland's water situation that will perpetuate growth for the future.
I have also decided not to share it unless the President is reelected.

We may never know.

[Happy JP]

Ignorance is bliss, in this case.

[pianoman]

Ignorance is bliss, in this case.

If that is the case, I should be the happiest fellow around.

[Wampum]

Pee in a cup and pour it in the lake. Save all liquids and do the same.

[Flipocrat]

I have developed an effective and viable long term solution to Eastland's water situation that will perpetuate growth for the future.
I have also decided not to share it unless the President is reelected.

Well, since that tactic seems to work for Boehner's Tea Party Republicorpsmen, why not?

[pianoman]

I have developed an effective and viable long term solution to Eastland's water situation that will perpetuate growth for the future.
I have also decided not to share it unless the President is reelected.

Hmmmm...I think the same tactic was used when the health care bills were passed. No one could tell you what was in them, because they hadn't been read by either party. Interesting tactic. Think I'll try that with my wife.