Editor:
I read your editorial regarding the level of taxes in Oregon.
I was surprised that you did not mention that Oregon does not have a general sales tax to help offset the need for other taxes.
This allows individuals from Washington to cross the river and shop in the Portland metropolitan area to avoid the 6.5% Washington State sales tax, not to mention the additional taxes added by cities, counties and special districts.
Tourists also are able to avoid sales tax in Oregon while Oregonians have to pay sales taxes in all surrounding states.
Taxes are necessary to support public safety including police and fire protection in addition to roads and education.
Oregonians have defeated sales tax referendums several times.
What are Oregonians willing to give up to have lower taxes?
Complaining is easy. Solutions are hard.
Maybe you should suggest some alternative solutions to funding services that every Oregonian wants and uses.
Maybe you should run for the State Legislature.
Richard Wopat
Lebanon