Dafuq did I just read?

This continued encroachment of regressive taxes is part and parcel of why I've been so against the stupid Arts Tax. The city government now believes that they can keep rolling these out, nickel and diming the populace.

Portland's big enough now...we need a larger city council. When just three people can levy a regressive tax (sorry, "fee") without a vote, even very liberal Portlanders start to get queasy. At least I do.

"one on the merits of the regressive plan (which, yes, would raise money for a host of noble maintenance and safety projects)"

Here's why this is bullshit. Money has already been raised for a host of noble maintenance and safety projects. Through the gas tax. Through the business tax. But the city council funnels it to streetcars and whatever other shiny objects capture their attention.

"Sources say Novick made sure to back a budget priority of Fritz's, full funding for enforcement of the city's tree regulations, in case it maybe helped nudge her into his camp."

You've got to be fucking kidding. We're gonna levy a regressive tax, without a vote, that will invariably be squandered so Fritz can enforce fucking tree code? That's batshit.

Chuck:

I didn't even get that far. My mind seized when I got to the part that the CITY IS GOING TO TAX ITSELF! Which I'm sure it does in a sense when it pays for utilities, etc., but this seems like a whole different beast.