ROETTER: Balanced, best for Hayden

As the spouse of a recent retiree, our household is facing a new normal, watching our budget down to the penny. We understand and accept that lifestyle adjustment for the benefits of more free time. One of the reasons we like living in Hayden is because the city has a low tax rate which helps retirees and families immensely.

In conversations with Hayden City Councilman Matt Roetter, he explained that the tax measure on the November ballot will raise my Hayden city tax rate by 25% if approved by the voters. This increase is proposed in order to double the number of Sheriff’s deputies that patrol Hayden.

Councilman Roetter wanted an increase of two deputies instead of the four on the ballot proposal. He explained that our crime rate in Hayden hasn’t doubled and is fairly flat. Matt proposed an increase of two deputies as a result of our population growth. His fellow council members voted instead for doubling the number of deputies. I’m with Matt, four deputies isn’t necessary.

It appears Councilman Matt Roetter is the only member of the city council who is interested in balancing public safety and tax rates. Matt is also a leader in opposing the location of a prison work release center in Hayden. Vote for Matt Roetter for Hayden City Council on Nov. 5.

KELLY BALDWIN

Hayden