In the recent past we discussed the implementation of impact assessment fees for developers. That ball is in motion and rates are being adjusted since the first assessments were considered prohibitive and would be a large factor in stopping development (not the intention.)

Yes, it would be great if the BTB were to give back a little of its collections back to the communities that generated the income.

It would also be great if a portion the gst & business taxes were left in the community where it is generated.

I pay 15% business tax. Most businesses that I see on the island tend to run between 1.75% and 3%. A few companies run a little higher. I seem to remember that the estimated monthly biz tax & gst combined from the island averages about $60K per month. So even if we kept all of those taxes I find it hard to believe we could manage the town efficiently.

But the vast majority of the people on this island do not pay income tax or business tax. Most of the people on the island either don't work or fall short of the income level where taxes begin being assessed and collected.

Although San Pedro would love to collect all of the tax dollars generated and keep them on the island we also have an obligation to contribute to the rest of the country.

I don't believe we are receiving our fair share of tax dollars. But I also don't believe that new developers and tourist taxes should be the only groups that should be taxed and bear the burden of the necessary infrastructure for this island.

I don't believe that the people that live on this island, that utilize the roads, the services of the police, fire department, health dept etc. etc. should get a "free ride" and look to others (such as new developers and tourists) to pay for such services in full. Some of the responsibility and burden must lie with the general population too.