It's that time of the year where the liberal Chicken Littles scream about the sky falling on Rhode Island's cities and towns.  It looks like the state will end up cutting aid to cities and towns , which will prevent increases in broad-based taxes.  This is good news, but of course, we hear criticism from some on the left who want to raise taxes.  They claim that budget cuts and a lack of tax increases at the state level will only lead to property tax increases at the municipal level.  This is nonsense.

     The General Assembly is reportedly considering a bill, or package of bills, which will remove mandates which will allow cities and towns more flexibility when creating their budget.  As for the inevitability of property tax increases, this will not happen if local residents are engaged and keep an eye on their city or town.  Many mayors know that residents would rather see budget cuts than tax increases.  For example, David Cicilline already stated he would cut jobs and trim city operations to make up for reduced aid.  He can do this because these employees and services aren't necessary.  Wouldn't it have been nice if he had done that earlier?

     Remember: The writing has been on the wall for a while.  Mayors and town managers should have seen these cuts coming and planned accordingly.  If there are any local property tax increases, don't let them blame the state.  Cities and towns must budget reponsibly.  A failure to do so can't be blamed on the state.