I would like to preface this letter by saying I am employed by the city of Tiffin and proud to serve the residents of the city in my capacity at the Water Pollution Control Center.
The citizens of Tiffin face a decision this November on how they wish to handle a $1 million deficit in the very near future. They can vote to approve a quarter-percent income tax increase and retain first responders (police, fire and EMS), continue what I believe to be essential services such as snow plowing streets through the city and dropping salt when ice develops, and recreational opportunities such as keeping the city pool open. Citizens can turn down the levy and lose a portion of the aforementioned and much more.
I believe these considerations are the same that are considered by those looking to relocate to Tiffin, moving businesses to Tiffin and doing casual business in our city.
It is getting crunch time for the city, and I am well aware of how the city is pinching every penny, leaving no stone unturned in seeking more departmental budget cuts, already having worked with unions to forego raises, increased the amount of money that city employees pay toward their health insurance and reduce staffing levels in many departments.
I believe this increase is well justified for the betterment of the city and its citizens. I hope that you do, too, and will vote in favor of the increase.
Sincerely,
Dan McElhatten,
Tiffin
