House Bill 1287

Dear Mr. Governor,

I am writing to ask that you Veto House Bill 1287, "which would waive property tax obligations on all property owned exclusively by a federally recognized Indian tribe in Washington State." It is evident that many politicians are too afraid to comment on this bill publicly or privately. I understand our politicians desire to right the wrongs of generations of murder, degradation and persecution of the Native Americans at the hands of Indo-European settlers. However, not signing the Bill results in the same action as if you were to sign the bill into law; the only difference being an active support of the Bill or a passive support.  That being the case, the only conscionable option is to Veto the House Bill 1287.

If this Bill becomes law the only individuals standing to gain are those in a financial position not to need said tax waivers. I currently work in a facility where the property is owned by the Muckleshoot Tribe, and I honestly have absolutely nothing negative to say about their management of the land. If the Bill were to pass into law the city of Snoqualmie would lose over $500,000 in new construction property tax revenue from the proposed expansion by the Muckleshoot tribe alone.  This kind of loss to the city would be made up in property tax increases for single-family home owners.  Making it harder for your constituents to buy and own their own homes. The economy is on an upturn for the first time in years young families and rural communities can finally look to the land again for homes, development and sustainability. If this bill is signed into law or ignored into law you will be hurting your constituents young and old. Anyone who isn’t a tribal member and owns or is looking to buy or build will be seriously inhibited merely because a group of politicians wish to assuage their guilt for being both Indo-European and Politicians.

I ask that if you truly care about the welfare of your constituents and wish to do what is best for the people who have elected you to make decisions on their behalf, Veto House Bill 1287.

Sincerely

A Very Concerned Citizen