After reading the most recent edition of the Press-Standard, specifically the article and letter promoting Measure A, I felt compelled to write this letter to try and clarify some things.

These articles were well written but the writers fail to tell the readers that this measure is in addition to the assessments levied years ago under what was the original measure A. That measure set a tax rate of 10 cents per acre of open ground and up to $40 per residence. The new measure A sets an additional assessment of $69 per parcel plus an additional 3 percent each year thereafter. In 5 years the 69 dollars will be nearly 80 dollars and will continue in perpetuity unless repealed.

If you are a homeowner you currently pay around $40 but under the new proposal you will pay upwards of $109 annually

I know a family that has 120 acres of farm ground comprised of 6 parcels. Today their measure A obligation is $12 but if the new measure A passes their tax would be $426. How is this equitable?

The writers also fail to mention that the County of Merced is responsible to provide ambulance service to the area just as it does to the rest of the county but, to my knowledge, we are the only area of the county paying assessments. In effect, we are subsidizing the county and the contracted ambulance service provider.

At the very least, I think the board of directors for the WHCD should abandon the idea of a parcel tax and introduce a measure to increase the per residence assessment provided for under the original measure A or maybe it is time to consider repealing the original measure A and let the county deal with the ambulance service just like they do for the rest of the county. 

I am not asking anyone to vote a certain way. I am asking that before you cast your ballot that you consider this measure carefully.  How will it affect you, your neighbors or others in the community?

Steve Pometta - Gustine

Concerned citizen and former member of the WHCD board of directors.