VOTE NO on LARGEST TAX INCREASE IN MODERN HISTORY (By: John Pollard, Treasurer of No More Taxes Committee) If the millage fails, more than 100 police and firefighters will lose their jobs. And, if the largest tax increase in Lansing history passes on May 3, 69 police and firefighters will still be laid off. It's almost 6 of one or a half dozen of the other. In order to levy 4 mills to 4.8308 mills in the next 5 years, Lansing voters must first override the Headlee Cap, which prevents annual taxes from increasing more than the cost of living or 5%, whichever is less. We the people voted in favor of Headlee, an amendment to the Michigan Constitution, to protect us from runaway tax increases and prevent municipalities from having uncontrolled taxing authority. NEVER override Headlee! That would amount to us giving up our constitutional rights for the next 5 years. Headlee is our safety net. It's like doing away with all the safety features on a car. Would you drive a car with no brakes, headlights, seat belts, or air bags? Then, why take a chance on not capping the amount that taxes can be increased for 5 years? The City could have raised taxes 3.7 mills, instead of 4 to 4.8308 mills without touching Headlee. This millage is more about UNCONTROLLED TAXATION and fleecing taxpayers than keeping Lansing safe. Even if the millage passes, there will be 69 fewer police and firefighters. Sewer rates and recycling fees will increase along with a plethora of ambulance, parking and parks fees. Sidewalks won't be repaired. There will be a 15% reduction in tree trimming, a 20% reduction in code compliance officers, the elimination of $4 million in funding for sewer road and parks maintenance, 50% less street sweeping, the closing of 1 fire station, elimination of 1 Fire Engine/Truck Company, small parks will be transferred to Ingham County, and Groesbeck Golf and 3 cemeteries may be privatized. We will pay a lot more for a lot less. VOTE NO on MAY 3!