Dear Editor,
If Carbondale is the "capital of southern Illinois," we need to consider the best interests of the entire realm and support the Jackson County public safety tax. Haven't you heard? It is no secret that southern Illinois is experiencing a methamphetamine problem of epidemic proportions and what affects the county, whether positive or negative, affects Carbondale. Carbondale reaps the positive benefits of the wineries, state parks and the national forest located in Jackson County. Many visitors stay in Carbondale hotels, eat in Carbondale restaurants and buy gas at Carbondale gas stations. Carbondale is the retail, banking, commercial, cultural and health center of the county. A good portion of the sales tax and motor fuel tax that the city of Carbondale takes in comes from Jackson County residents that don't live in Carbondale. Residents of Murphysboro, De Soto, Ava, Grand Chain and other communities also contribute to Carbondale schools and social service agencies through the sales taxes they pay. Due to the recent annexation of SIUC property, approximately $75,000 in sales taxes will be lost by Jackson County and will land in the city of Carbondale's coffers. If Carbondale wants to be the "capital of southern Illinois," then let's also be the heart of southern Illinois and show some leadership by supporting our neighbors that also live here in Jackson County.
Joel Fritzler
Councilman
Carbondale City Council
