Phoenix officials are proposing to raise taxes so they can spend even more of their citizens’ hard-earned money — and they’re violating the Arizona Constitution to do it. March 6, Goldwater delivered the city government a clear message : Stop violating taxpayers’ rights.
The city of Phoenix has proposed a tax increase on businesses that provide services, claiming it needs the money because of a revenue shortfall. But the burden of the new tax increase will ultimately fall hardest on Phoenix businesses and consumers, raising the prices of services like construction contracting and lodging.
Moreover, the Arizona Constitution does not allow any new taxes or tax increases on “services” — a broad term that encompasses many types of businesses that do not produce tangible goods, including hospitality, advertising, photography, utilities and construction, among others…