Pine Bluff daily graphic., 1912-05-11

result we have been Stunted Ill sfo"'n and retarded in all those things that go to make up an up-to-date state. By the issuing of bonds, cities Ill other states are enabled to build good streets, sewers, water works, parks hospitals, play grounds, and construct building for public use, such as schools, libraries, museums, gymnasla' etc.
 Why should not the cities ana towns of Arkansas enjoy the same privilege? Why should we be heio tight in the thrall of an antiquateo Constitution. This is subject Of vl- tai importance to the welfare, not only of the people of this generatlon' but we are determining the environ ment and deeply affecting the lives of those who will follow us. We are undertaking a work of great respon- sibility, and one that will make TOT the veal or woe of generations yet unborn.
 In view of these facts, we shoulo weigh carefully every phase oI tue subject and conscientiously determine what is best, before casting our vote for or against this measure, remem- bering that ''The mistakes of today are the burdens of tomorrow.
 Tn this connection may l recite one or two of the most vital reasons why every intelligent and patriotic citizen should vote for this amendment:
 First. State pride and civic patriot ism should induce us to cast our vote for this amendment, realizing that' without ample funds, our cities ana towns cannot reach that point Tn mu- nicipal development which marx the growth of cities and towns in other states.
 The rate of taxation permitted oy law is wholly inadequate to meet the annual expenses of city government and allow any surplus for permanent improvement. Should the law per mit an increased rate of taxation for such a purpose, it would amount to confiscation.
 If our cities had right to issue bonds for permanent improvements, we would no longer be driven to the necessity of forming improvement dls- tricts and being burdened for per iod of years with special taxation that in many instances has forced the noor man to sacrifice his little home and move out of the district, Ill or dor to escape the unjust burden. rav uniust burden, for I do not be- lieve it just and right that the present generation should be made to bear all the burdens of this improvement when posterity will reap the greater benefit. Nor is it fair and just to lay such a burden upon the shoulders or those who may perchance own a house and lot which may comprise all of their worldly possession, when their rich neighbor, who lives Ill d vented house and owns no real es- tate, does not pay cent for the lm- movement which he enjoys and should help to pay for.
 Bv issuing long time, interest bear ing bonds, the burden will fall equal 1v on all. If we could issue bonds for permanent improvements, we would not be forced to draw upon our ah- nual revenues for this purpose. conse- ouently we could place our finances upon a cash basis, our scrip wohlo sell at par, and we could buy for cash. thereby saving the city thous- ands of dollars every year in pur- chasing supplies. Why should the city have to pay from 15 to 5O per cent more for what she buys than the private individual?
 Large corporations, gigantic rali- road systems, mammonth mercantile and manufacturing plants all over the world pledge their credit TOT funds to improve and enlare thell business, and for the betterment o1 their systems.
 Then why not cities and towns, un- der proper restrictions and safe guards, be accorded the same privl' lege? Let the people of Arkansas cut loose from the restrictions of our an tiouated Constitution, and set aside that foolish prejudice against cone issues that have so long hamperee the progress and development of ou' State. Then, and not until then, Will Arkansas take her rightful place II the forefront of the sisterhood O states.