Politicians versus roads and bridges

To the Editor,

I have been watching what the politicians in Jefferson City have been bouncing around for the past few years -- REPAIRS TO MISSOURI ROADS AND BRIDGES. The way that the present transportation tax is distributed, by the time it gets down to the actual repairing of the roads and bridges, it is so diluted that there is not much left for the repairs.

I believe that the majority of the Missouri residents realize that something must be done to fix our transportation problems, but, how much of the present taxes actually go to the repairs. Our gas tax is one of the lowest in our country and I personally would vote to have the Missouri State gas tax increased providing a few requirements are in place. (1) That the entire gas tax increases are used for bridge and road repairs or replacement. (2) That none of the increased gas taxes be used for water-ports, airfields, transportation venues, etc... (3) That the present taxes remain proportioned at present standards where the same percentages are distributed for bridge and road repairs.

The politicians are presently trying to pass taxes that would not require approval of the people of Missouri, apparently thinking that the people are gullible by proposing that the way that gas taxes are calculated to a percentage of the price of gas be changed. This made me laugh, just enjoying some of the great remarks of our politicians. Maybe this is some of the new ways that their math is taught.

I drive on these roads and bridges and realize that they are in need of repair. This would also provide jobs for many people in need of work. I do believe that we need to have a gas tax increase but only if the above requirements are in place. One hundred percent of any gas tax increase needs to go to --ROAD AND BRIDGE REPAIRS OR REPLACEMENT.

Tom Melton

Doniphan, Mo