JOHN PALMER

We are here today in support of HB 1206. We feel that many elected officials in local and state government have strayed from doing their jobs as outlined in our Constitution and have fallen prey to special interests.

Let me explain. The Preamble of our Constitution very clearly states why the Constituition was written. It also clearly explains what you as elected officials are supposed to be doing in office. The part I'm talking about is where it says you are "to promote the general welfare of the people." Well, what does that mean?

General: Means relating to every member of a class or group, not confined by specialization or careful limitation.To me this is a warning from our Forefathers about special interests cointrolling the government.

Welfare: Means the state of doing well in respect toyour fortune, happiness, well being, or prosperity.

"Promote the general welfare"--that's part of the job, and it's just not happening in many cases at the local and state level.

HB 965 was a good example of this. A special interest group wanting something aty the expense of the general public (I do want to thank you for your no vote on that bill. It was simply not a good bill.)

I'll be here again tomorrow. Our council president wants to put an additional tax burden on the people. He simply doesn't get it yet. "Enough is Enough." The people are tired of being governed by special interests and tax increases.

I ask that you take a couple minutes and read the Preamble of our Constitution and then vote in favor of HB 1206.