Archive: Opinions

The residents of Lansing have very strong opinions.  Our voices are raised when we are confronted by ideas and interests that directly affect our lives.  We are a thoughtful group that likes to hear all sides of a debate and are respectful of opinions other than our own.

Recently, our elected officials have been discussing the need for a municipal sewer system.  Voices on both sides of the issue have made it clear as to where they stand.  This is not a new topic of discussion, but it remains an important one if Lansing is to meet the challenges that face us now and for the foreseeable future.

Growth is inevitable.  Throughout our town’s history, people have come to Lansing for a variety of reasons.  With one of the finest school systems in the state, a reliable source of employment, and with scenic beauty that stands in a class of its own, Lansing is a very desirable place to live, raise a family, and retire.

All of this takes money.  The roads we drive on, the parks we enjoy, the services we use are all paid for by our tax dollars.  For years, our town was spared a heavy tax burden with the tax revenues collected from AES Cayuga, Cargill, and other businesses.  Life was good.  Tax dollars flowed into the town treasury and paid for a large portion of our bills.

That, as you know, has changed dramatically.  AES Cayuga has filed for bankruptcy and renegotiated its “fair share” of tax payment.  Cargill has had an especially bad sales year thereby eliminating any chance of recouping lost tax revenues. With most individuals feeling taxed to the max, a new source of tax revenue must be found if we wish to maintain a quality of life that all of us enjoy.

Smart growth is the answer, and that growth begins with a town center.  Various committees and officials have devised a very fine approach to growth that incorporates a business district alongside affordable housing.  This plan of action that ensures our quality of life and provides a steady stream of tax revenue hinges on a sewer system.  

Without a sewer system, Lansing will not be able to attract businesses.  Without businesses, tax revenues will continue to decrease placing a heavier burden on the individual tax payer to maintain the quality of life we all enjoy.  Few of us are prepared for the burden that awaits us if new sources of revenue are not found.

The thoughtful letters sent to the Editor have clearly illustrated the economic challenges many residents face.  This will not improve if we stifle growth and allow the chips to fall where they may.  We can turn around our own economic troubles by working with our elected officials to bring new businesses into our community.  I am willing to pinch pennies for a few years in order to gain a secure, safe and economically viable community for years to come.  And that is to the point.

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