06/10/2026
Nick's letter to the Springfield Finance Director regarding the new adopted citywide payroll tax -
"Nick Smith
Jun 9, 2026, 10:34 AM (1 day ago)
to me
Finance Director Bell,
Your comment in the chronical after the payroll tax passed was the antithesis of how to bring in revenue to the city. I'm appalled by your quote! "We want to attract more businesses, bring more business into the community. That's how we're going to get more leverage out of this tool". second quote ''Lets bring in business in here. Lets increase Payroll. Lets increase that revenue so the percentages stay the same, the benefit rises". Sir, that is foolish! Higher Taxes do not equate to a fruitful economy. Take a look at New York's tax the rich program! Government there is now begging for the rich to come back.
The Core Conflict: Economic Growth vs. Immediate Burden
I run a small business in Springfield, New local taxes add immediate financial strain to operations that are already heavily burdened by state and federal taxes. For small businesses operating on thin margins, these policies can feel out of touch with the reality of trying to pay competitive wages and stay afloat.
Public Sector vs. Private Sector Dynamics
Government Compensation: Public sector roles often feature structured cost-of-living adjustments (COLA) and step-increment pay scales designed to retain staff and ensure predictable budgeting.
Private Sector Reality: Small businesses must tie raises to revenue, market competition and immediate profitability, making it much harder to guarantee regular increases for employees when overhead costs rise.
I'm disgusted by your thought process and that of the council. While city staff enjoy benefits packages that only government's can afford, you see revenue as a never ending stream of cash that you do not have to sacrifice to earn.
You clearly are only focusing on the minority of the population, not the majority who go to work everyday to someday hope to experience the feeling of actually being financially ahead. It's time for you to do a better job!
I request this correspondance go into the next agenda packet
Thank You
Nick Smith,
President / Owner
A multi generational Family Owned Business
Roberts Supply Co
2842 Main St.
Springfield, OR 97478
(T) 541-747-7129
(F) 541-746-7802"
