Cheers and Jeers

JEERS — To a county mortgage tax increase. We’re surprised real-estate agents and people selling houses in Montgomery County haven’t packed the Board of Supervisors chambers recently. The proposal to increase the tax on a mortgage can’t possibly be something they support. The treasurer says the proposal could generate an additional $300,000 to $500,000 in revenues. A person who receives a $100,000 mortgage would pay an additional $500 in mortgage taxes. To generate $300,000 in additional revenues, 600 homes would have to be sold. County officials must stop putting the responsibility of raising revenue on the people. Cut expenses and stand up to unfunded state mandates. Don’t keep coming back to the hardworking people for more money. One of the top reasons people are not buying or building homes in our area is high property taxes. Why, then, would anyone think an increase in another fee related to buying property would entice people to say, “Yes, I want to live in Montgomery County, where it will cost me more from day one”?

CHEERS — To an encore. The Oppenheim-Ephratah Marching Hawks have done it again. This talented band marched into first place at the 2008 Syracuse St. Patrick’s Day Parade. This local band has shown its talents numerous times, and has continued to give award-winning performances. This latest honor comes at a great time for the residents of Oppenheim as they celebrate their 200th birthday. Congratulations.

CHEERS — To Mark Murphy. This young professional has returned to his hometown area and brought an entrepreneurship we hope is contagious. He’s the president and founder of Dimark Development, the company responsible for developing the site containing the Mobil, Dunkin’ Donuts and Subway on Route 30 in the town of Mayfield. Apparently, he now sees the need for an Adirondack-style hotel. He’s working with a group of young people from Broadalbin-Perth High School, giving them hands-on experience in the business field. We hope to cheer more about this project soon. Although he would rather talk about his passion for flying than his business ventures, he is a welcome fresh example of good leadership. We’re glad he landed back here.

CHEERS — To a village. Speculator has existed for 83 years. This week, village residents voted on whether Speculator should remain a village or be dissolved. The people decided the village will celebrate its 84th birthday, and perhaps many more. An extra cheer for a voter turnout of a little more than 50 percent. While not as high as it should have been, that percentage was much higher than other times voters go to the polls.