I read with interest the article in The Citizen regarding a budget surplus of $161,221, projected for the coming year. I was entertained by Citizen columnist Monroe Roark's characterization that this budget surplus somehow causes a “dilemma” for the city government.

I am writing to suggest that there is no “dilemma,” and there is no question about what should be done with the taxpayer's money. The council should vote to reduce the millage rate accordingly, thereby lowering the city's taxation of homeowners in Peachtree City.

The property owners of Peachtree City already bear the lion's share of the tax burden. We are paying for many amenities and benefits enjoyed by all of the (non-homeowner) residents, businesses and their (non-resident) employees, and visitors to the city. We also shoulder the costs of essential infrastructure and public safety services.

As our elected representatives, you are positioned to act courageously on the taxpayer's behalf in this moment of rare opportunity. We are already quite well taxed by the federal government, the state of Georgia and Fayette County.

The time has come for tax relief to begin; the place for that beginning is right here in Peachtree City. Please vote to lower our tax burden for the coming year.

Remember: We the people are watching you!

Samuel M. Phillips, Jr.
Peachtree City

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