LETTERS: PAYING TAXES IF THE PRICE OF RECEIVING GOVERNMENT PAYOUTS

To the editor:

The following is intended not to be partisan, neither conservative or liberal. In the recent partisan "contract" issued from the U.S. capitol steps, which promises, among other things, "to cut federal spending, reduce taxes and get the government off the backs of the American people," the word "selective" should have been added to each of the three thrusts.

This thought came to mind as I read a news article in one of Missouri's metro area newspapers. In order to retain a certain industry in the area, "Incentives from Missouri's Department of Economic Development were crucial to the company's decision. The state is providing $263,000 in investment and job creation credits. The department also agreed to send $750,000 to help build a diamond interchange at the location."

The company will save an "estimated $600,000 in utility charges." Because of the research park is owned by the University of Missouri, the company "will not be paying real estate taxes."

Who will pay for these concessions as this scenario is repeated many times throughout the nation to woo "free" enterprise? How to distribute tax responsibility among the upper crust, middle America and Joe Six-pack is the continuing question that will not go away with simplistic declarations. When we confront the payment of taxes, we want the government off our backs. When we need help, the government must be Johnny on the spot.

With diverse interests becoming increasingly effective in enforcing demands, we are already experiencing the inability to derive a strong, constructive, centrist working consensus.

It calls to mind the profound words of Abraham Lincoln, "testing whether a nation so conceived can long endure." The verdict is still out.

GILBERT DEGENARDT

Cape Girardeau