Tuesday, June 28, 2016

Robert Reich
6.27.2016

Another example of how the political power of big corporations redistributes wealth upward: Disneyland officials planning a massive new luxury hotel next to the resort want the city of Anaheim, where Disneyland is located, to subsidize it with $200 million in tax abatements. The luxury hotel would include upscale rooftop dining, two swimming pools with food and beverage service, multiple spas, 24-hr. bell and valet services and a fitness center, among other amenities.

Mayor Tom Tait calls Disneyland’s request “insane” because “our entire general fund budget is $300 million” and the deal would “have a massive negative impact on our ability to deliver vital services.” It would not only harm average citizens but also harm non-luxury hotels that pay their full freight in taxes. But the city council is likely to back the subsidy anyway. Disneyland has huge political clout.

Are big developers in your city siphoning off tax dollars that are needed for vital services?

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