Dear editor:

I am writing to comment on a recent article in the July 14 edition titled “Weed and Pest: Mosquito population could surge if property taxes go down.”

The article smacks of “fear mongering” — sowing fear to influence public opinion and attain a desired outcome (remember COVID!?). In the article, the Wyoming Weed and Pest Council (WWPC) states “If the property tax levy is reduced in November, the mosquito population could surge in 2027, along with the West Nile virus.” And as stated by a district supervisor, “Without these measures and funding from the property tax levy, the mosquito population will take over the state and the quality of life for citizens will be threatened in the years to come.” It sounds like the making of an insect horror movie.

In my opinion, it seems to me the WWPC wants voters to oppose the reduction of property taxes based on fear of contracting a disease and a mosquito hostile takeover of Wyoming! They state that the “mosquito population could surge” — key word, “could.” What is their basis? What are the facts? “Could” is not evidence nor fact. They don’t know. Don’t use a disease (West Nile virus) to scare people. According to the Centers for Disease Control (cdc.gov), “Most people infected with West Nile virus do not develop any symptoms.” So, how is the WWPC going to determine an increase in infection rate? Bottom line — there are other ways and means to secure funding to continue mosquito abatement. Some critical thinking would go a long way.

According to the WWPC website — “Tax reform measures, targeting property taxes, have the potential to erode this critical funding for districts.” “Targeting property taxes …” they call citizen tax relief a “target?” Really? And, they use the word “potential” — a safe word to use because they cannot say for certain it will have any impact. The Wyoming Weed and Pest Council should be more concerned about Wyoming citizens putting more money in their pockets to provide for their families. 

Most, if not all residential property and home owners want property tax relief. Let’s vote to reduce our property taxes. If it were up to me I would eliminate residential property taxes so Wyoming residents own their property and homes free and clear of any tax burden. The way it is set up now, in most places if you don’t pay your property taxes, the local government seizes your property and home. Eliminating property taxes would eliminate this government overreach! To quote one of the most honorable Supreme Court Justices ever named, Justice Clarence Thomas, “The government exists to protect property; property does not exist to support the government.”

JR Sinskie

Powell