Road upkeep fees are unfair

As you have faithfully reported, the four Thurston County jurisdictions have implemented new tab fees and/or sales taxes to pay for the upkeep of our roads. While I have no problem paying my fair share to keep our roads in good shape, I do have a problem with some citizens paying more and other citizens paying less.

For example, if I register my car in Olympia, I pay $10 for a tab renewal. But if I then shop in Lacey, I am also paying the road upkeep sales tax. In short, I am paying twice. Contra wise, if I live in Lacey but shop in Olympia, I am not paying at all. I respectfully suggest that the different jurisdictions (Lacey, Olympia, Tumwater and Thurston County) coordinate with each other and implement the same fee or sales tax across the board. If they decline, I will seriously examine my shopping habits and switch to Olympia stores whenever possible.

This story was originally published April 5, 2017 at 2:12 PM with the headline "Road upkeep fees are unfair."