The average homeowner's tax bill nearly doubled between 2001 and 2007 from $2,559.95 to $4,846.42. This increase of 89.3 percent compares with about 16 percent national inflation during the same period.

Why does one of the wealthiest counties in the country, which has received an enormous residential tax windfall in the past five years, have so little money for basic needs?

Charlie advocates:

• Expansion of the county auditor program to look for additional cost savings and efficiencies

• The re-establishment of the bipartisan citizens advisory commission on the budget to make recommendations concerning the county's budget

• The elimination of taxpayer subsidies to the real estate industry through below cost fees for development-related services

• The collection of cash proffers from developers comparable to neighboring counties to pay for new roads, schools and other needed infrastructure

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