AMERICAN LEFT HISTORY

This space is dedicated to the proposition that we need to know the history of the struggles on the left and of earlier progressive movements here and world-wide. If we can learn from the mistakes made in the past (as well as what went right) we can move forward in the future to create a more just and equitable society. We will be reviewing books, CDs, and movies we believe everyone needs to read, hear and look at as well as making commentary from time to time. Greg Green, site manager

Sunday, February 04, 2018

Tax break for Bath Iron Works

Jim Anderberg

February 2, 2018

I wonder how people would feel if the wealthiest person in their town wanted to be singled out for a reduction in their property taxes? Someone who makes more in one day than they make in an entire year?

Well, General Dynamics, the owner of Bath Iron Works, is asking Maine taxpayers to do essentially that.

General Dynamics pays its CEO $21 million a year and takes in annual revenues greater than Maine’s yearly budget. General Dynamics is asking taxpayers to give it a $60 million tax break during the next 20 years. And that is after the huge corporate tax break the Trump Administration gave it.

I propose putting that $60 million toward expanded Medicaid, toward schools, or property tax relief. State representatives should take note.

Jim Anderberg, Vienna