**Update - The cost of a Special Election for LBTD is now $40,000.00

I think a referendum vote is fair. But *timing* is also an issue here. Consider that our county can save money and have a better turn out (and more represented of the county population) if they hold the LBTD during a regular election.

But these Commissioners timed their proposal of LBTD so that the law requires them to hold an election on the issue in so many days (I don't recall exactly what they are). So we will have a special election. This will cost the taxpayers and turn out will suffer.

This issue to me is far more than just should Chatham allow a vote LBTD or not. It's about these Commissioners having what they want, when and how they want it.

What boggles me about the LBTD debate is that the proponents of LBTD are the same folks demanding "we don't want strip malls and big box stores in Chatham! Support local businesses!! Slow Growth!!" (Really no growth)

Yet these cries conflict with their no growth desires so they can enjoy a Martini at Applebee's or whatever "fancy" restaurants you claim will bring the extra revenue because they can serve LBTD.

I want to state here that my opposition to LBTD is not for religious reasons. I oppose this allowance because of the many facts about the increase of alcohol related incidents and accidents, etc after such laws are enacted.

But this post is about telling the truth about the LBTD referendum.

Consider that the Land Transfer Tax proposal was advertised as "For the children - for the schools." But there was nothing in the LTT legislation that earmarked LTT revenue to schools. Opponents of the LTT made sure the public knew about this and the Commissioners quickly voted to appropriate a percentage to school funding. This was a loose, non-binding vote, mind you.

The proponents of LBTD - the same folks who oppose growth for aesthetic purposes - have stated that now that by approving LBTD Chatham can welcome national hotel and restaurant chains. Consider now that the Commissioners intend to approve the Major Corridor Ordinance. What Applebee's is going to want to build 1500 ft from the Highway and then be hidden by the buffer requirements?

Folks - this debate does not make sense to me. The proponents of LBTD want THEIR lifestyle when and how THEY want it. Watch for it Chatham! And make them be honest in their arguments!