Holguin, Acosta Right, Rest of Council Wrong, Niland, Ortega AWOL

City Reps Holguin and Acosta were right to oppose city council buckling to Texas Gas’ rate increase. They wanted to take it to litigation. That is the responsible move in terms of their constituents. If they litigate, Texas Gas would’ve been at a disadvantage, despite the fact that their lawyer might say otherwise.

EVERY lawyers tries to play hardball. Every lawyer threatens the other party to take a deal instead of risking worse in court. That’s what lawyers do. But as it was pointed out by Marty Schalden in the El Paso Times earlier this week, Texas Gas tried to pass on costs to taxpayers before that were found to be costs that shouldn’t be passed on.

Ortega and Niland weren’t present to vote, and I am sure they have a good reason for not being there. But I think people should keep an eye on who is and who isn’t present for big votes on city council. In the case of Ortega, I should point out that I don’t think he was ditching school that day because he was afraid to take a hard vote. He’s taken hard votes and is currently the target of a recall effort because he’s not afraid to take a hard vote.

But ya gotta show up for the big votes. Its important.

One last note, you are going to see a lot of increases coming from the county and city and other entities for at least the next year. I warned you guys that was going to happen.

The Republicans in the legislature really pulled the wool over people’s eyes. They went to Austin and told people they were making cuts. They make taxpayer’s feel like they are going to be paying less.

That’s a lie, they aren’t. They are just going to be getting far less for their money. And now, because of the cuts, counties and cities have to raise taxes and fees in order to meet the need for the services. They screwed you.

I told you it was going to happen.