As a former Washington state resident currently residing in California, I encourage I-695 proponents to watch out for legislative revolt. California Proposition 13 was passed in 1978 and significantly reduced or removed property taxes. The state of California went on to eliminate revenue distributions owed to cities. City infrastructure descended into disrepair, while maintaining outrageous city employee salaries, benefits and retirement packages. Now all of sudden infrastructure is a priority requiring emergency action that translates to increased or new taxes.

Do not be intimidated by your lawmakers in Olympia. You will be subjected to plenty of hyperbole from opponents in an attempt to scare or embarrass voters. All you will be doing is returning the stolen power back to the people. Remain vigilant. Thank you.

-- James Feczko (jimfive@hotmail.com), August 18, 1999