It's time for Pa. to seriously tighten its belt

I would like to add to letter writer Joseph P. McHugh's list of things that need to be done before any increase in any income or other taxes ("What We Want," June 21).

The first thing in my estimation is the elimination of all pensions for anyone holding elected office. These offices are very sought after and there is no need to reward these folks with pensions; this is the sole reason we have so many lifetime politicians.

The second item on my wish list is to eliminate any tax increment financing. All businesses within Pennsylvania should be on an equal footing as far as taxes are concerned. We continually give away the store. Anyone remember Lord & Taylor?

The third thing is to pass legislation banning the use of any tax money or any other type of public funding for any sports teams or private ventures; we should make the various teams, Penguins, Steelers, Eagles etc., pay for their own stadiums. I still can't get over the fact that the citizens are paying for venues that are used solely by millionaires, but yet the guy/gal who barely squeaks by is paying for them.

The fourth item on my list is that all excursions/junkets be forbidden until the budgets are balanced. There is no compelling reason for any elected official to visit "sister cities" during this time of economic hardship.

I challenge the rest of the citizens of this state to come up with even more items to cut. This is not the time for any type of tax increase; this is the time to tighten the belt and eliminate all discretionary spending.

JEFFERY J. JACKSON
Ohio Township