Dear Editor:

I have read with interest the recent articles written about the City of Ann Arbor’s pending budget.  What appears to be missing from the discussion is the fact that the City is not the only entity experiencing difficult financial times.  Many of our local businesses have struggled or gone out of business during these tough economic times.  Businesses do not have the option of raising taxes to solve their financial problems.  They have had to balance their budgets and live within their means.  The Chamber is encouraging the City of Ann Arbor to do the same. 

The Chamber is fully aware that the City of Ann Arbor and other governmental units across the state are experiencing difficult times.   We are also painfully aware that our businesses are experiencing similar difficulties.   The Ann Arbor Area Chamber of Commerce and the City have mutual goals for our local government—to provide basic services and a high quality of life in Ann Arbor.  However, the Chamber also wants to make sure our member businesses and residents can continue to afford to do business and live in the City.

Sabrina Keeley
President
Ann Arbor Area Chamber of Commerce

Ann Arbor News
Letter to the Editor, March 2004