Spreading Democracy

How would the Las Vegas or London odds makers evaluate the probability that the U.S. or U.K. will ever return to tribal or true monarchical government and economy? What is the likelihood that Japan will return to imperial rule? The odds would be staggering the probability minuscule.

Why?

Because a free-market, entrepreneurial based economy is the strongest defense against government intervention and any form of government other than democracy (or democratic republics). Give small business the opportunity to do business and they will greatly dictate the form of government citizens will tolerate.

Even the much smaller Hong Kong (by geography and population) has dominated the impact on China since England transitioned governmental control back to the mainland.

So, how may the world's free economies positively spread democracy? How may we positively impact Pakistan, Iraq, Iran, North Korea, Cuba, Africa, and many others?

Presidential candidate Mayor Rudy Giuliani has the answer when he posed and answered the question, "What do Americans want to do? We want to sell something."

Giuliani correctly suggests that by establishing free-trade policies with the people of Iraq, Pakistan, Iran, North Korea, and others they, the citizens of those nations, will demand a more democratic and open government. The business community will demand a nation of greater peace, of stronger laws - to preserve their own prosperity.

Rudy's right. It's time to find creative ways to do business in all nations. Establish strong trading partners and we will benefit not only the American business community, but the safety and prosperity of people across the entire globe.

What a difference

At the outset, let me state that I share in the responsibility and blame for the mayoral transition in Snellville in 2000 that was less than the City deserved. Norcross, however, is setting the example for future transitions from long-serving administrations to newly elected and much of the credit goes to Mayor Lillian Webb.

Mayor Webb, a classy lady by any measure, has served her community and Gwinnett County for some 37 years. By all accounts the mayoral race in Norcross was respectful. When the votes were counted in the mayoral run-off, Mayor Webb lost to first time candidate Bucky Johnson. Mayor-elect Johnson is also deserving of praise for his campaign and gratious public comments about Miss Lillian.

Mayor Webb arrived at City Hall with the news of her defeat, congratulated Mayor-elect Johnson, and offered her continued support and assistance to her City in any capacity desired.

Mayor-elect Johnson will benefit from Mayor Webb's experience and love of her community. Believe me, elected office is tough and Mayor Webb, now 79 years young, has proven herself equal to the task and an outstanding public servant. If Mayor-elect Johnson's campaign night statements are an indication of his future leadership, the City Miss Lillian led so well for so long will continue to thrive and these two candidates have provided all a model for future service.

Photos by Jason Braverman, Gwinnett Daily Post

Time for a change in transportation funding

Much debate and discussion is underway on how we are to pay for transportation improvements in the coming years. The state per gallon gas tax hasn't been increased since the 1970's and with increased mileage from today's autos combined with inflation, the current tax isn't keeping pace with the need. That said, there's little chance that State Legislators will increase the tax.

Perhaps they shouldn't. Perhaps we should be looking at other alternatives to fund roads, bridges, transit, sidewalks, and the many other transportation related investments.

Have you seen the latest General Motors commercials? Their tag line is GM: Gas-friendly to gas-free. GM is touting not only high fuel efficiency, but also ethanol, hybrids, electric, and fuel cell vehicles.

So, how high would we have to raise the gas tax to pay for needed transportation improvements if in a few years we're driving gas-free vehicles? I can't count that high.

So, if not a per gallon gas tax, generating revenue based on usage which seems like a reasonable mechanism for paying for the needed investment, what?

What other user fee options exist? Obviously, tolling and I believe tolling must play a role in future new construction. I personally find great merit in the voluntary, variable priced managed lane proposals (HOT Lanes, Express Toll Lanes, Congestion Pricing).

Tolling alone won't be enough. Another user based variable is distance. Rather than a cents per gallon of gas tax, perhaps it is time to investigate a cents per mile driven tax. A distance tax doesn't discriminate between gas, hybrid, electric or fuel cell. A distance tax remains a somewhat voluntary user based revenue source. Distance tax systems are being tried in several European cities and may provide data worth considering here in the States.

Principal for a Day

I enjoyed an outstanding day at my Alma Mater, South Gwinnett High School. The Principal, Berry Simmons, Administrative and Instructional staff are doing a tremendous job.

I visited with Special Education students operating computers via voice and optical devices because of severe physical challenges. I visited with Advance Placement students studying Advanced Economics discussing monetary policy and its’ impact on the economy, business, and our community. I toured a well-maintained school with state-of-the-art technology, modern music and choral rooms, tremendous athletic facilities, and a 500-seat performing arts theatre.

The atmosphere was pleasant, inviting, and conducive to learning as well as social growth for all students. Early intervention addressing classroom problems with a clear, firm, and positive outcome is the rule and all Administrators communicate frequently throughout the day in support of both teacher and student.

Much has changed at South Gwinnett since I graduated in 1979 and in most cases those changes have been for the better.

After all these years – still proud to be a Comet!