Guest Hosts: Dave and Betsy Smith

City Leadership and Fiscal Responsibility in Tucson

## The Proposition 414 Debate

The city of Tucson faces critical challenges in management and fiscal responsibility, particularly regarding Proposition 414. The initiative, which would increase sales taxes, lacks clear controls ensuring funds would go to stated priorities like public safety, firefighting, police work, traffic enforcement, or street maintenance. While proponents claim it will support police and fire services, there are no binding mechanisms to prevent funds from being diverted to other projects like murals and art installations.

The timing of this special election is particularly concerning. When questioned during Bill Buckmaster's show, a city council member admitted the proposition was deliberately scheduled outside the regular November election cycle because "we knew we wouldn't win" if held then. This special election will cost Tucson taxpayers approximately one million dollars - funds that could have been saved by including it in the regular election.

## Immigration Impact on Southern Arizona

Recent federal policy changes have significantly impacted illegal border crossings, with crossings down approximately 95% in key areas. This shift has particularly affected Southern Arizona communities. Since 2019, Pima County has received nearly $118 million in federal funding reimbursements for sheltering illegal immigrants - taxpayer money that could have supported other community needs.

The impact extends beyond urban centers to agricultural communities. Yuma, which provides much of America's winter vegetables, has faced significant challenges. Farmers report crop damage from unauthorized border crossers, including contamination issues that can lead to E. coli outbreaks. Unlike natural disasters, such human-caused crop destruction often isn't covered by insurance, leaving farmers to absorb the losses.

## Local Government Accountability

Tucson's current governance raises serious questions about fiscal management and accountability. The city continues to fund programs like free busing despite questionable results, while basic services deteriorate. Street corners have become sites for drug dealing, traffic enforcement has weakened, and public safety concerns grow.

The relationship between non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and local government deserves particular scrutiny. Millions in taxpayer dollars flow through these organizations with limited oversight or accountability. The system often resembles a form of political money laundering, where funds cycle between government agencies, NGOs, and political campaigns.

## Looking Forward

As Tucson faces these challenges, the need for increased accountability and fiscal responsibility becomes clear. The city needs leadership willing to:

- Implement strict controls on public spending

- Ensure taxpayer funds directly benefit the community

- Address basic infrastructure and public safety needs

- Create feedback mechanisms to evaluate program effectiveness

- Hold officials accountable for program failures

The upcoming vote on Proposition 414 represents more than just a tax increase - it's a referendum on trust in city leadership. Given the current administration's track record and lack of accountability measures, voters must carefully consider whether additional funding without proper controls will truly address Tucson's challenges.

This situation reflects broader national discussions about government accountability and fiscal responsibility. As communities across America grapple with similar issues, Tucson's experience offers important lessons about the need for transparent governance and responsible stewardship of public resources.