Press release By Cascade County and Montana Libertarian Parties
GREAT FALLS, MT, January 15, 2024 – The Cascade County Libertarian Party (CCLP) strongly encourages the Great Falls City Commission to seriously consider Commissioner Tryon’s proposal and actively seek community feedback on this crucial matter. Reflecting on the 2023 elections, it’s evident that a thorough review of the City’s budget is essential:
· June 19th, 2023: County Commissioners certified the library levy results with 7,223 and 6,607 votes for and against the levy, respectively. Only 15% of voting-aged residents effectively consented to increase property taxes for the remaining ~53,000 residents. Although we recognize elections have consequences, the results do not reflect a community mandate for the library’s significantly expanded budget. The new budget exceeds $3 million, more than double the $1.5 million budget in 2023, and surpasses the initial levy estimate understood by voters of $2.7 million. Good stewardship entails managing resources wisely, not inflating budgets simply because funds are available, especially amid increased tax burden.
· October 10th, 2023: CCLP choose not to endorse city commissioner or mayoral candidates after learning “that the library levy was intentionally placed on the June [2023] ballot to avoid simultaneous levies in November [2023]. ” It is incumbent upon the City Commission to address their prior oversight and holistically review the City budget to meet our community needs.
· October 31st, 2023: Asked if the levy failed, then candidate Cory Reeves said, “We’re going to have to take a hard look at our budget and see where some other services can be cut. [Safety is] that vital. People don’t want to invest in our community if this community is not safe. ” We agree with this sentiment and encourage Mayor Reeves and the rest of the commissioners to collaborate with the community to assess the full City Budget.
· December 1st, 2023: County Commissioners certified the November 7th election results, including the results of the Public Safety Levy (5,621 for; 9,098 against) and Bond Election (6,730 for; 7,925 against). Despite the clear opposition, the community undoubtedly was aware of the state of public safety. The primary reason that brought all political and non-political backgrounds together was the universal increased financial stress on our community due to increased property taxes.
While the People were not given the opportunity to evaluate all levies simultaneously in 2023, the City should ensure the People can provide input regarding Commissioner Tryon’s proposal. All aspects of the budget, allowable by law, should be considered.
About the CCLP
The Libertarian Party is the people’s representative in American politics. It is the only political organization which respects people as unique and competent individuals.
The Cascade County and Montana Libertarian Parties are the real choice for less government, lower taxes, and a freer future. The CCLP believes in both economic and personal freedom. We believe people should be free to make their own choices, provided they don’t infringe on the equal right of others to do the same. Government’s role should be to protect an individual’s right to make their own choices in life, so they can reap the rewards of their successes and bear personal responsibility for their decisions.
