To the editor:
When we look at any budget we should think big. We should think beyond the numbers on the page to the goods and services residents should expect from the proposed expenditures. We should also imagine how those goods and services will improve lives.
We think big by creating expectations for how goods and services will improve the quality of life for those who live in and those who visit the county. Some might object that we are thinking too big when we include visitors as recipients of county goods and services. However, we all benefit from various goods and services, infrastructure like roads and recreational facilities, clean water and fresh air. We think big by asking how numbers in a budget translate values into action for real people.
Additionally, as residents the financial plan is designed to benefit, we must commit to helping the budget that is adopted succeed. We fail to think big when we allow political differences to undermine activities that foster collective goals. The budget also supports the salaries of county staff, and we think big when we are respectful of one another.
Lincoln described democracy as a government by the people, of the people, and for the people. This vision of democracy is possible particularly at the county level. It is demonstrated by how we prepare and implement a budget and in our commitment to honoring the democratic goal of improving our government and the quality of life for all.
Milton Eder Maple City
