Don't cut out the poor

By Tony Staley
Compass Editor

Cities and counties across Wisconsin are immersed in drawing up budgets for the 2004-05 fiscal year.

The process has been complicated by the long economic downturn resulting in both greater need for services to the poor and financial pressures on taxpayers; cuts in state aid; and calls on local governments to freeze taxes.

While the economy seems to be improving, local officials must rely on what is, not on what may be. And because property taxes fund so much of local government services, a boost in the economy will not automatically increase those revenues as it does income or sales taxes.

That leaves local officials with many tough choices and few options for funding.

As these decisions are being made, both our elected officials and citizens need to keep in mind our communities' neediest citizens. Their needs trump the wants and desires of the rest of us. And it won't work to point them to the nearest charities, who are also feeling the pinch of demand outpacing resources.

Jesus made clear his expectations for his followers when it comes to their obligations to the poor.