EDITOR:

I read today where Steve Viau is seeking information about a millage to help my fellow veterans. The Public Act 214,1899 designated 1/10th of a mill be collected to assist veterans, that would be $.10 per thousand dollars of property value. Back in 1899 that was probably a great sum of money. These days, not so much. Back in 1899, if a veteran or family were found in need the maximum could be drawn was $10 What would $10 buy these days? Google Tells us that “$10 in 1899 is equivalent in purchasing power to about $362.46 today, an increase of $352.46 over 124 years. ” In other words the Act is sorely outdated. A sum of money gathered from a 1/10th of a mil these days would be quickly wiped out, but just a few veterans in need. I would like Mr Viau to visit all of the agencies in the area that do help my fellow veterans, be it with a 10% discount on food in a restaurant, to the fraternal and other organizations that collect funds all year long – and look into giving them a break on taxes or whatever, at the very least recognition. And rather than force a millage on people, give them recognition for their voluntary donations to this issue.

Sergeant First Class Edward Stacey

United States Army Retired.

Escanaba