In just a few months, I will recommend to the new County Council the first budget of the next century. In that budget, I will seek to continue on the prudent course that we have charted over the last four years. One of the things I plan to do is to take advantage of our vibrant economy and provide additional tax relief. First, I will again ask the County Council to repeal the local tax on users of cellular and wireless phones. Also in my next budget, I will push for a reduction in the local income tax, to bring the rate down from 60 to 58 percent.
Tax relief is, indeed, a major priority.
However, there is one tax that I have unabashedly asked the County Council to enact immediately. This is a bill that has strong and growing support in the community and it would be unfortunate to see the enthusiasm for this life-saving measure lost as a result of delay and inaction. Although it's too early to say exactly what will be in my next budget, I can assure you that it will continue to reflect the strong emphasis I have placed on preserving and improving the quality of our schools. Inherent in that commitment will be my support for efforts to reduce class size in our schools, to expand professional development opportunities for our teachers, and to assure the safety of our children. Our children are our future, and they have a right to learn in an environment that is free from worry and full of encouragement.