Our Say: Costly surprises in city budget are inexcusable

Published 10/18/09

Everyone remembers the scene in the movie "Forrest Gump" in which actor Tom Hanks says, "My momma always said, 'Life was like a box of chocolates: You never know what you're gonna get.' " Perhaps the same can be said about the city's spending plan. It delivers new surprises by the day.

The first surprise was a new fee to repair the city's crumbling sidewalks. Homeowners and merchants learned of that increase when the bill arrived in the mail. Then the mail carrier delivered another surprise - an increase in parking permit fees so egregious that some businesses threatened to leave the city. Now...

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Not Efficient Government In Operati - 2009-10-19 09:56:11

I am sure glad I don't live in Annapolis!

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Rick M. - Laurel, Md - Karma: Excellent

not totally blameless - 2009-10-19 09:22:06

While the city government should advertise increases more. It is the responsibility of the business owner to follow what regulations may or may not affect their business, and it's irresponsible of them to just throw their hands up and say they didn't know, when they could have know if they did their homework. Business as well as individuals need to start taking personal responsibility. You operate a business that is heavily regulated, it is your responsibility to track that.

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Paul N. - Arnold, MD - Karma: Excellent

Good Editorial - 2009-10-18 08:37:55

About time the Capital took someone to task for the ragtag way the budget was patched together and the abysmal job the administration has done communicating it.

Go one step further and remind voters why they need to support having a City Manager in charge. All of these problems stem from the top, where the mayor considers the city in "good fiscal shape" when she can arbitrarily raise fees and licenses to fund her travel and projects.

We aren't in good fiscal shape. We need a professional in charge. The Capital should endorse a candidate who is committed to that change.

Otherwise, you'll get Moyer of the same. Remember that when you make your endorsement.

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B. Bolder - Annapolis, MD - Karma: Excellent