On November 16^th, at 5:30PM, the LCG City Council will meet at City Hall, 705 W. University. Although this is their regular meeting, the business that was to be discussed was anything but regular.  In fact, at a meeting today with Mayor Durel, several members from TEA Party of Lafayette and Acadiana Patriots were informed that this tax has been removed from the agenda indefinitely.  In our discussion Mayor Durel commented that he and the City Council Members welcome the citizens of Lafayette at the council meetings and that he works toward the goal of transparency. 

At this meeting, the NINE City Council members who are elected to serve a population of over 200,000 citizens had planned to vote on the TIF. (Tax Increment Financing)   The TIF, which is a 1% Sales Tax, will affect everyone who shops in certain areas and along specified corridors.  For more information, click on Lafayette  and to Agenda No. 18 – 0-261-2010.  The nature of a TIF is that it is not put before the citizens for a vote but is voted on by the City Council. To be fair, the council was holding a public hearing, the TIF would be advertised…educating the public about its benefit and then the nine city council members would vote. 

It is our understanding that the TIF was removed indefinitely due to the high volume of phone calls from citizens, such as you.  Good work patriots!  The use of the TIF, or Tax Increment Financing, is used widely in California!  Is this the example that Lafayette wants to follow, that of a bankrupt state? For more information on TIF:  Coalition for Redevelopment Reform.  

Tea Party of Lafayette has started TEA Party Eyes which is an Observer Group.  The plan is for two or three observers to attend City Council and School Board meetings, observe, take notes and report to a committee.  This committee will be posted information on www.teapartyoflafayette.com; so that you will be aware of issues that affect both you and your pocketbook.  We need your help!  You can attend one, two, or three meetings a month…or even one every other month.  If you feel you are TAXED ENOUGH ALREADY then join us by responding to: eyes@teapartyoflafayette.com  

Remember, this is where we can hold those elected to SERVE US accountable for a return to smaller government, fiscal responsibility and upholding the principles of the United States Constitution.  TEA Party of Lafayette will be at the next Council Meeting on November 16^th at 5:30 PM at Lafayette City Hall, 705 West University on November 16^th at 5:30 PM.  Join us! We suspect that this will not be the end of TIF! 

Joyce Linde/Coordinator

Tea Party of Lafayette