Tax increase will save money over long term

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The proposed one-tenth of 1 percent sales tax increase is not only vital to helping provide comprehensive behavioral health services in Whatcom County, but it also saves money.

Each time an individual receives greatly needed services, it can significantly reduce the amount of money that we, as taxpayers, have to spend in alternative outcomes, such as jail, law enforcement, and other costly and often ineffective efforts.

It could be comparable to saying that we don’t want to purchase a toothbrush and toothpaste because we’d rather pay for cavities, root canals and other expensive procedures down the road. That would make no sense.

So the choice is really simple. We can either pay a little now, or a lot later.

Unfortunately, as a community we are already paying for not investing enough into these services, and it will get worse if we continue to ignore existing problems.

I don’t think a vote to the people is necessary when it is a no-brainer and clearly should be supported by our elected officials.

A benefit for individuals needing services and a benefit to taxpayers. I like to think that a winwin situation is still a no-brainer in this day and age.

Dawn Fuller
Bellingham

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