Reducing Baltimore taxes doesn't require a casino

Now that Baltimore has finally received approval for a vendor for a slots casino, MayorStephanie Rawlings-Blakestates she wants to use the proceeds to reduce the property tax rate ("As city's casino moves forward, Rocky Gap plans to scale back," Aug. 1).

What about the racing industry that slots were supposed to help? What about funding the fire houses that are closing, what about fixing the water mains, what about getting rid of the bottle tax and whatever happened to fixing dilapidated schools?

It just goes to show Mayor Rawlings-Blake has no clue how to run a city. Taxes could be reduced if the she would get rid of the excessive number of bureaucrats who do nothing but collect a paycheck and benefits.

If the city voters would elect someone with business experience, property taxes could be reduced and the schools could be fixed without going to the state every year begging for funds.

J. Michael Collins, Reisterstown