es, that’s what everyone is talking about these days. What with the recent revaluation of property in Sumter County, every taxpayer is wondering when and how much taxes will increase.

Yet, during these tough economic times, something has to give. Citizens can’t possibly expect to continue to receive and access government services such as fire protection, law enforcement coverage, etc. when revenues continue a steady bleed-out. Funding doesn’t come from the sky and since revenues cannot be made to increase, the only was to fund services is to raise taxes. It’s not pretty but it is a fact of life.

Now, on to more pleasant subjects.

How can we, the taxpayers, help to spur the local economy? For one, we can shop locally. By keeping our money here in the local community, we are helping to keep local businesses in business so they can pay their taxes and employ people as well, so they can pay theirs.

While people are generally cutting back on dining out and traveling to other towns frequently, that’s OK, too. Save your dollars and eat out on special occasions when you can, right here in Americus, Plains, DeSoto, Andersonville and Ellaville. Or enjoy some free entertainment such as the Movies at the Market at Lenny’s Market, the Farmers Market located on South Hampton Street. The market is still open from 7 a.m.-1 p.m. Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, so stock up on some beautiful locally grown produce at great prices.

And don’t forget to attend the games of our local schools’ teams. The cost of admission is minimal and besides, you’re showing community support and school spirit by your presence.

The Columns at Boone Park is available with all kinds of activities and programs, as well, as reasonable costs. And this IS revenue for the Sumter County government.

Times are hard for everyone right now — individual citizens, governments and private business and industry. We generally get what we pay for. Paying taxes is as American as anything else. We may not like it, but it is necessary.

If you know of something going on in the local business world, please contact me at beth.alston@gaflnews.com or 924-2751, ext. 229, so I can include it in this column which will publish every Sunday. It could be a new business, an employee promotion or recognition, a relocation or addition, a special marketing promotion, most anything related to enterprise and the business climate.

Beth Alston, an award-winning journalist, is executive editor of the Americus Times-Recorder.