LIGHTHOUSE POINT – Lighthouse Point City Commissioner and candidate for Broward County Commission Chip LaMarca criticized Broward County Commissioners this morning on the raising of the millage rate in Broward County to prop up the county government’s out of control spending.

“Every taxpayer in Broward County should be enraged at this news,” LaMarca said. “To even consider the possibility of raising taxes during a time when the unemployment rate in this county is over 10%, foreclosure rates are massive, and property values continue to drop is irresponsible and shows how out of touch this commission really is.”

LaMarca said that as commissioner, he would make it his first priority to raise revenue in a responsible manner, by bringing business back into the county.

“It’s a very basic principle: instead of taxing more people out of their homes, we need to make it a priority to re-open all of these buildings that are closed on Federal Highway – to make this county vibrant again. Bring business into the county for our revenue, don’t overtax during a recession. The Commission needs to bring jobs to this county and let businesses thrive here, not raise taxes on people who are already making enough sacrifices during a tough economy.”

LaMarca, a small business owner, said he relates to those citizens who have had to sacrifice over the past two years.

“As a small business owner, my own business has taken a hit. I know what’s going on. Unlike my out-of-touch opponent, who continues to make two full-time salaries as a commissioner ($92,000 per year) and trial lawyer (well into the hundreds of thousands per year), I’m a business owner who has had to take this recession on the chin. I have had to sacrifice for the sake of my employees and our future. As a taxpayer, I’m insulted that this is even being considered at a time like this. I, for one, believe that the commission should have a look at cutting their own budgets and salaries before they force the taxpayers to subsidize their lavish lifestyles.”