I attended the predator control meeting in Lambert on Jan. 8th, 2014. After listening to Michael Foster representing Wildlife Services, a federal agency, I have a few thoughts to share with Richland County Livestock Producers.
I will not support a “petition” to tax ourselves forever. I believe this idea has two strikes before it gets off the ground. First: There is no sunset clause in this law. If this tax is imposed whether effective or not, it says on the tax assessment until another “petition” removes it. In my lifetime I have seen many taxes imposed but can’t remember any removed! Second: Do we really want to be in bed with a Federal Agency? Michael seemed like a “nice guy”. What happens when he’s replaced? If we go forward with this self imposed tax, we lose control of how the money is used when we turn it over to the feds.
I would voluntarily contribute to a predator control fund, on an annual basis, If that fund was controlled by a local board of Richland County Livestock Producers, who could hire a private contractor to fly or trap problem areas.
In my humble opinion anything government can do, private enterprise can do better and more cost effectively.
Thanks for your time, Jerry Foss
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