Toby Teeter and the Men of Briarbrook are again trying to tap into the pockets of the taxpayers to buy the golf course, and there are a few points the residents of Briarbrook should know about their proposed political subdivision and a community improvement district.
1. There is no statutory limit on the amount of special assessments that can be imposed on property owners.
2. In addition, a political subdivision “may at any time issue revenue bonds for the purpose of paying any part of the cost of any project or part thereof,” according to the Missouri statutes, without a vote of the public. The residents have been told their taxes can go up only if they sign another petition for further improvements. Not true. Do you really think the golf course won’t need any more money for the next 20 years? Residents will foot the bill for every improvement the board of directors want. This is in addition to city taxes.
3. If your assessment is not paid, your home is subject to lien and sale to satisfy debt to the district. Times are hard for a lot of families now, and if necessary, how easy do you think your property will be to sell with these extra taxes?
4. A political subdivision has the power to establish new ordinances above and beyond what the city imposes for anything the board deems fitting including home improvement restrictions, fences, pets, etc.
Still sound like a good idea? Please, don’t take my word for it. Verify the above information by contacting the Missouri Department of Economic Development. If you have already signed the petition, you can contact City Hall and ask to have your name removed. Despite what some of you have been told, there will be no election held regarding this issue.
If this is such a great idea and will be such a success, let the Men of Briarbrook and those residents who want the golf course buy it and run it as they see fit.
Mary Schillaci
Carl Junction
