'Don't we get it?'

What is it with us Utahns and our pathological fear of taxes? We hear daily about new crises, such as Jordan District's proposed cutting of 500 workers and the bill to opt out of any federal health care program, which may well lead to elimination of Medicare payments to our needy sick. Don't we get it? We desperately need a boost in state income. And the only logical, albeit painful, solution is an increase in tax revenue. The notion of balancing our state budget on the backs of educators, other public servants and Medicaid recipients is totally ludicrous and harmful to our present and future well-being.

Why don't we temporarily increase the state income and property taxes on those who can afford it, tax double-dippers 75 percent of their second income and strictly enforce posted speed limits by imposing fines that will hurt?

These are tough times requiring both courage and sacrifice. The recession won't last forever, but while it's here, extraordinary measures are called for.

Belden and Christa Durtschi

Pleasant Grove