Great Op-Ed in the Post About Unions and the Secret Ballot
Former (as of yesterday) state Senator John Loudon has a terrific opinion piece in today’s Post-Dispatch about the need to preserve the secret ballot in union certification votes. As you probably know, there is an absolutely horrendous bill in Congress that has a terrifyingly high chance of passing now, known as the Employee Free Choice Act — which Loudon correctly identifies as a rather Orwellian title. This bill would discontinue the secret ballot for union votes.
Its only purpose is to increase union membership, by making it easier for workers who want unions to win these votes. If you think the days of On The Waterfront are over, I need only point you to the tactics employed by unions in fire districts around the St. Louis area. You can find that information here and here.
Thanks to Combest for the original link, and to South County Truth Spot for the work they do covering the field in South St. Louis County.
Taxation Without Representation?
What is taxation without representation?
Taxation without representation occurs every time you shop in a
Community Improvement District (CID). That is because Community Improvement Districts are allowed to impose additional sales taxes without citizens having any say (representation) on how those funds are spent.
What is a Community Improvement District?
A CID is a political sub-division created by businesses in a defined geographic area or shopping mall who petition the City to create the district for their benefit.
Why create a Community Improvement District?
This allows the businesses to receive additional revenue for use in paying their operating expenses. With this help from you, their bottom line (profit) will be improved.
Who creates Community Improvement Districts?
The City Council approves the petition allowing businesses to impose additional sales tax without citizens voting or having other input.
Who is in favor of not allowing citizens to vote on a tax?
The Chamber of Commerce, business owners and the City Council (those you elected to represent you).
Following is a list of areas your representatives have approved to add additional taxes to your purchases:
3 Trails(Bannister Mall)
North Oak Village
The Brookside
39th Street
Performing Arts
Truman Road
Antioch Center
Renaissance Plaza
Waldo
KCI Airport
River Market
Westport II
Martin City
The Shops on Blue Parkway
Red Bridge Shopping Cente
Skelly Building
Landing Mall
Comment by t.nash — January 8, 2009 @ 9:55 p.m.