The city has committed itself to excellence. There's been steady growth in tax revenues without any tax increases.

While there is evidence that GDP growth has touched bottom, the recent tax increases on certain consumer goods, electricity and metro price hikes, more moderate real wage rises, and rising unemployment are probably going to impact consumption in 2002.

Tax increases through the back door. It's very insidious. I think it's very harmful and it's really going to have a very negative impact on the whole system if we don't reform it now.

We have not had tax increases since the 1970s, ... Since then costs on everything have gone up.

By maintaining systems, retiring debt, and keeping costs low for taxpayers, you've assured the financial position of the city. It's commendable that the mayor and council utilized fixed assets to make this happen.

We can't be too thankful for the businesses and industries we already have. The city is financially healthy due to their presence.