I moved recently with my wife to a small town. I wanted to get involved in the community so I have been going to some tax-increase meetings and Village meetings. I won’t kid you they are not the most exciting spectacle out there, but they provide a wealth of knowledge in understanding where your taxes are going. There was some bickering and wasted time going over topics ad naseum, but once you cut through that you get an understanding of what these government officials do and what they propose to do with your tax dollars. Remember, there are other options if you do not want to attend. Often you can get the transcript of the proceedings or watch on a local cable tv station.
I will continue to go to these meetings because there are only 2 per month. Once I get more familiar with the area and how the village works I will be more confident to express an educated opinion. Hopefully, with that I will have a voice in what direction our small town goes.