Last six recessions started while Republicans held White House
Your story in Tuesday's paper on the third page about a recession not being imminent got me thinking. How often do recessions occur? How many recessions has America had in a lifetime or so, since 1980? When was the last time that America was in a recession?
Some easy research reveals that economic recessions in America occur on average about once every 6 years over our complete history. Since 1980 we have been in economic recession six times. They began in the years 1980 (Carter), 1981 (Reagan), 1990 (Bush 1), 2001 (Bush 2), 2007 (Bush 2), and the last in 2020 (Trump).
I personally have my doubts that Presidents can really do much to affect economic cycles, but it is interesting to note that all of the last five recessions, since 1980, have started when Republicans controlled the White House.
Maybe Republicans today should stop hoping for economic bad news this summer just so they can push their false political narrative that somehow, they are better for the economy. Recent objective and historical facts just don't show that. It is not true. Recent history shows that recessionary economic trouble starts under Republican presidents. Why go back to that again?
Bill Frang, Loveland
The editorial in the Aug. 11 newspaper regarding the sales tax question suggested that anyone considering anything less than a "yes" vote is indifferent to the city of Loveland's quality of life. That assertion offends me.
Unprecedented property tax increases of 40% to 50%, unchecked inflation where food and gas have increased 25% to 50%, and questionable decision-making by city leadership when it comes to city finances, has made some citizens tax weary.
Older adults living on a fixed income are facing significant increases in the cost of rent, utilities, and groceries. They must make the unconscionable choice of buying medications or heating their home. The fear of eviction and hunger are real. There is no room for niceties. Buying a cup of coffee at Starbucks or a meal at Panera Bread is out of reach for many older adults.
When it comes to governance, our City Council needs to make the same hard choices. Live within your budget. Law enforcement, fire protection, and public works are essential. The arts, library, and parks all add value to our community. However, why must the burden of providing these services continue to fall upon the citizens of Loveland. The city golf courses charge green fees. The Chilson Center charges membership fees. It is high time the end user of the arts and the library contributed more if these services are considered essential to the character of Loveland.
An older adult living on a fixed income probably benefits more from saving $300 a year in tax exempt food purchases than free access to the museum. A "no" vote doesn't demand less quality of life in Loveland. It challenges our City Council to step up and lead, which is exactly what they were elected to do.