California Alliance for Golf

Comments

R. B. Jeffrey

This is what California gets for continuing to elect liberals to the State Assembly and Senate. We are just getting the Tax and Spend legislature that we keep putting back into office election after election.

January 21, 2009, 5:17 PM

Joey

If they start taxing golf, I plan to just start writing IOU's for everything. Golf, milk, gas, and my property tax. Keep your guns hidden so Obama's gustopo can't collect them from us.

January 22, 2009, 10:33 AM

Bob

I am an avid golfer and would support the plan to tax this luxury sport. I assumed that taxes were rolled up into the cost of playing. Why should golf and related servies not be taxed?

January 22, 2009, 1:53 PM

Dianna Jackson

I think some of these comments are totally inappropriate. Pointing fingers, name calling have no place here. Grow up and get serious. If they tax golf, they should tax all sporting venues. Our state is in a crisis situation and taxes are going to have to go up. But singling out one sport is not fair.

Dianna

January 22, 2009, 4:23 PM

Sam

Get it straight - you are already taxed to play golf. This is a surcharge / tax. The reason the legislature wants to do it is "golf' is an easy catagory to define. You don't think you are already getting taxed on GOLF.. how many of the following taxes are part of running a golf facility? No more.. there are plenty of broad based taxes covering golf and quite a few more to come.. NO GOLF TAXES...

Accounts Receivable Tax

Building Permit Tax

DL License Tax

Cigarette Tax

Corporate Income Tax

Dog License Tax

Federal Income Tax

Federal Unemployment Tax (FUTA)

Fishing License Tax

Food License Tax

Fuel Permit Tax

Gasoline Tax

Hunting License Tax

Inheritance Tax

Inventory Tax

IRS Interest Charges (tax on top of tax)

IRS Penalties (tax on top of tax)

Liquor Tax

Luxury Tax

Marriage License Tax

Medicare Tax

Property Tax

Real Estate Tax

Service charge taxes

Social Security Tax

Road Usage Tax (Truckers)

Sales Taxes

Recreational Vehicle Tax

School Tax

State Income Tax

State Unemployment Tax (SUTA)

Telephone Federal Excise Tax

Telephone Federal Universal Service Fee Tax

Telephone Federal, State and Local Surcharge Tax

Telephone Minimum Usage Surcharge Tax

Telephone Recurring and Non-recurring Charges Tax Telephone State and Local Tax

Telephone Usage Charge Tax

Utility Tax

Vehicle License Registration Tax=2 0

Vehicle Sales Tax

Watercraft Registration Tax

Well Permit Tax

Workers Compensation Tax

Like

January 22, 2009, 4:51 PM

Judy

It seems that golf is being singled out unfairly because it is perceived as an elitist sport. However, the cost of participating in or attending other sports events is just as expensive, if not more.

In this economy, the golf industry is hurting as much as any other industry. I am an avid golfer and have noticed the steep decline in business at various golf courses. To add another tax on top of the fees could mean that business will decline until there is not enough revenue to support the course.

Many of the courses support junior programs that prepare young golfers for future possibilities of getting golf scholarships and the chance to further their education. The lost of golf revenues could mean the end of these types of programs

January 22, 2009, 5:43 PM

Guy Fox

If the State of California cuts the administration by only 10%, stop all of the never ending appointments that make over 100K per year, cut State salary by 10%, then you do not need any new taxes. You would make the budget! Taxing golf is like taxing social security. It is not a necessary thing. You can thank Al Gore for being the deciding vote to tax social security. California State legislators need to go back to school and take business 101 since 99% of them have absolutely no business experience and the people are idiots for voting them into office!

January 22, 2009, 6:25 PM

Elaine

It costs more to go to a basketball or football game to watch overpaid felons play(?) than it costs to play ANY round of golf, yet people keep going to watch the felons. Why not require that these clueless gazillionaire players chip in (they could collectively save the economy) and tax the heck out of attendees? Golf teaches HONESTY and INTEGRITY, is already taxed in every way, and should therefore be elevated as a further untaxable character building experience.

January 22, 2009, 6:40 PM

scottie miller

The issue is taxing golf which is unfair to seniors on fixed incomes. Tax all sports or none but no more name calling and political crap or I am outta here.

January 22, 2009, 6:40 PM

Joan M. Laudig

We are two seniors who have been playing golf for over 40 years. Why should we be penalized by taxes that could certainly be prohibitive for us to continue to play. A sport that keeps us active and an enjoyable pastime without costing an arm and leg.

January 22, 2009, 8:16 PM

Rhodey

Just in case representatives close their eyes and ears as to the discriminatory nature of this proposed tax and get their way, then serious consideration be given to avoiding this tax.

How about clubs and courses offering " free golf" therefore no tax, however it would be incumbent upon players to make a donation to the club as they see fit - like as close to "green fees".

Range Balls - heck members could donate balls and merely turn up to use their own balls for practice, once again a donation for the turf used should cover costs.

The possibilities must be endless and I am sure brighter minds than mine could create donations,gifts etc as against being taxed for paying.

January 22, 2009, 8:30 PM

Karen

The Governor has finally found a way to raise revenue for the great State of California. I wonder if the Golf Tax will raise as much revenue as would the Car Tax?

Look what happened to Governor Davis when he tried to

reinstate the Car Tax. Gonzo!

Get used to it Californians...the Governor needs to raise revenue to pay the bills....and he can't do it on a beer budget!

January 22, 2009, 8:44 PM

Mickey Schlatter

This tax is ridiculous. Senior citizens are encouraged to exercise to stay healthy, so taxes will not be needed to care for them in nursing homes. While many seniors are on a fixed income & is shrinking in support, this tax will discourage seniors from playing golf. Many youngsters will not afford to learn the game of golf also, which would be a terrible loss. What person with no foresight came up with this idea? This has me upset!!

January 22, 2009, 9:29 PM

Ethel A. Lardieri

What nonsense! I am a senior citizen on a fixed income and cannot look for nor get a job to increase my income. I totally agree with Mickey Schlatter in this matter. Just wait until you're a SUPER SENIOR and have to pay for the outrageous healthcare costs - that's a whole separate issue. I hope to play golf as long as possible after working for many years and contributing. Have you given any thought to reducing payrolls in Sacramento???

January 22, 2009, 9:47 PM

Greg

You need to get a blanket form letter out that hits all the points that can be signed and sent to the legislators. Include it with the Info PDF.

January 23, 2009, 9:06 AM

Gail

Tax Golf- what next? It could put golf courses out of business. They are already struggling because of the economy. And why single out golf? If there is going to be a tax on golf - then everyother sport and leisure activity should be taxed. Why don't we eliminate a few of the State and City workers 14 paid holidays. That would put some money back into the coffer.

January 23, 2009, 2:46 PM

Nicolas Montano

I don't think that this will put anybody out of business, however this tax is singeing out golfers. Taxes should be straight across the board. Why not baseball and basketball venues. The millions these places bring in should help. If California is going to tax golf, we should tax every sport.

January 23, 2009, 6:07 PM

Rex Wells

get real, this is a good place for some taxes

January 23, 2009, 7:43 PM

Jim R

It's getting harder to live in this state with the idiots we elect to manage it. The governator has turned into a REAL "politician" and back tracked the promises he made to get elected. Time to kick out another wimp who can't get it right for the people who put him there. It won't matter if golf and other sporting venues/events are taxed evenly, the funds will be misspent by the legislators in Sac. AND THE CYCLE CONTINUES.

January 23, 2009, 8:17 PM

Mike & Elke Botta

What happened to the Governor's campaign trying to get people to stay healthy through excercise? Golf is a great way to benefit from both physically and psychologically. There are so many other better ways to help balance the state's budget such as, a 10% cut of state employees making over $100,000 starting with our elected officials, cutting out unnecessary programs, and generally just reducing the size of our huge government. Everyone should take a "hit" in some way to help pay for the revenues needed to balance the budget so why not do a graduated one time tax like we now have for our variuos income brackets? Seniors on fixed incomes should be exempt from paying an additional tax on golf.

January 23, 2009, 9:08 PM

Bob S

It was not that long ago when American's revolted against taxation without representation i.e., dumped tea into Boston harbour. Well we voted for the representatives who are now serving in California. You have choices. Either clean house of ALL those with whom do not speak for you, rise up and raise your voices that you will NOT tolerate the taxes that are levied by those you elected or suck it up. Speaking of which, the next breath you take may be taxed if they now put in a clean air tax to support environmental causes.

January 23, 2009, 9:30 PM

Mary Lou

California is in a financial crisis, not because it has insufficient revenue. It's due to the unrestricted spending habits of our politicians who have failed time and again to live within the means. Just cut out the Boards with high paying retired/termed out legislators, Blue Ribbon Studies, consulting services, and unaccountable social programs, there will be a chunk of change to go around.

Targeting Golfers is clearly unfair. Golf is not just a game for rich people--many of you have already provided real life reasons. Golf is a bona fide industry that employs employees at various levels of this game. This tax is a short-sighted ploy. See how the luxury tax on yachts practically chased out the whole industry to foreign soil. Say no to unfair taxation without representation.

January 24, 2009, 11:05 AM

Sergio A. O'Campo

California's fiscal crisis is a result of wanton spending by our politicians. These same politicians who are supposed to be stewards of our state and it's infrastructures are too often concerned only with furthering their careers and pushing their pet political agendas. I reject the notion that the solution to our fiscal problems is simply an additional infusion of cash. This only serves to perpetuate the ineffeciencies that have brought us to this condition.

Rapid reform of how the State does business will do far more than simply furthering our ever increasing desire for revenue spelled t a x e s. Let's start by privatizing as many State services and jobs as possible. Take away the huge lopsided payrolls, benefits and retirement debts that have hamstrung not only this state but many of our great industries as well. The time has come to put the money back into the private sector where the real solution lies and where real and sustainable jobs reside. The psueo-economy created by big government is an illusion that eventually leads to ever increasing demands for more money. The state is not our keeper. You work and you contribute and you enjoy the benefits. The State can provide a safety net for those who have been a part of the system; however for those that don't contribute or don't legally belong it is time to re-think our obligation.

January 24, 2009, 3:21 PM

jim t

Ex Governor Wilson was recently on a local radio program and stated "when he raised Taxes the effect was not what was intended" the opposite happened. He stated he made a mistake. Every time taxes are raised it hurt the economy. Wake up! Stop the unnecessary spending. Cut out those plush appointed positions. I'll work 40 hours a week for one of those appointments. But come on!! Over 100 Grand for just meeting 12 time a year...Get real...

January 25, 2009, 3:16 AM

Doug

Most of these comments sound so selfish! Lets just assume for a minute that some new taxes will be necessary. They can come from income tax increases, sales tax increases or taxes on special interests from groups--like us--which have the weakest amount of political firepower.

Rather than say No to the idea of taxing golf, why not get our government to agree that Golf should not be the only whipping boy, they should add in all recreation and entertainment activities to the pot and make any new tax much smaller, from a much broader base.

By the way, what are the spending items we should cut to make up $40 Billion in deficit? Roads? Schools? The UC System? Unemployment benefits? Emergency rooms? Police and Fire Departments? All the suggested cuts in the comments from others above wouldn't make a dent in the $40 Billion.

January 25, 2009, 1:17 PM

Lagaman

Given the current economic situation and the dire budget situation in California, let's first assume that golf IS going to be taxed one way or another. How about taking a page from the Obama playbook and establishing a FAIR golf-tax structure in California that would be based roughly on one's ability to pay and play at courses one can afford. Let's assume that it is predominantly "wealthier" people who can afford to play regularly at courses charging higher green fees -- say $100 or more for a round. Let's charge THOSE golfers the 10% tax on their green fees and cart fees because they can probably afford it more easily than the rest of us can. If you're playing at a course where the green fee is $75-$99 (which is still higher than MOST golfers are willing to pay on a regular basis), maybe you establish a tax rate of 7.5%. If the green fees are $50-74 per round, how about a tax of 5%, and so forth down the line, with a minimum tax of 2.5%, no matter how inexpensive the green fees. That way, everyone pays SOMETHING in the way of taxes to help the state, but you're hurting moderate, low and fixed- income people (seniors, for example) who like to play golf LESS than if you were charging them a full 10%. For an easy-to-figure out example, if I'm playing at a course where the green fee is $32 and the cart fee is $12 (total $44), I'd be willing to pay a 4% tax ($1.76) on my golf outing that day. I would NOT be willing to pay $4.40 if I play that course regularly. This idea, if implemented, would raise a substantial amount of money during a year's time. I'd like to see some feedback to my idea in this column.

January 26, 2009, 12:43 AM

G. Miles

Cut the needless expenditures of sending people with real marginal input on issues or marginal intelligence that really can't make a difference in the governmental process.

Golf courses are closing or getting significantly less play=revenue in this economy. You are looking at a shrinking tax base. Leave the public and daily fee courses that are struggling out of this. They create real jobs for people.

January 26, 2009, 1:26 PM

Zoltan

What do you expect? Cities like Palo Alto already use muni fees to subsidize (more egalitarian) sports like soccer and basketball. In the mind of pin-head liberals, golf is an elitist luxury pursuit. In fact, golf must be a singularly GOP -- if not dastardly right-wing -- sport! That (faked) film of JFK playing golf is part of the vast right-wing conspiracy and Bubba only liked cheating and golf...not playing it! Seriously, why is CA so "blue" when the economy is so "red?" Stop voting for these liberal frauds in Sacramento and these dumb taxes won't take form...

PS This state went to crap once we had to hit *1* for English to communicate with the governor's office!

January 26, 2009, 1:29 PM

Lucy Kaye

I agree, no new taxes, Why should I have to pay a small tax so that some stupid disabled or old person can afford to pay for their medicine or keep their heat on. Let the poor starve - who needs them. The rich republicans rule!!

Give us a break already - if you can afford the clubs, the membership and the gas to drive there, you can afford $2.00 a game in taxes. Stop being cheap, give a damn about someone besides yourselves for a change. Wow! new concept for you. I know driving to the club in your cadillacs and SUV has already put you in dire staits. Where are the Christians? Must have left your Charity cards at home.,, I'm ashamed to be a golf playing, golf loving, tax supporting republican Christian first - who care for the disabled and poor "What you do unto the least of these, you do unto ME".

January 26, 2009, 1:47 PM

Steve

If golfers really wanted to avoid this tax, they need to do two things:

First - endorse a simple majority to approve a state budget. We are only one of three states that require a supermajority to pass a budget.

Second - endorse updates to prop 13 to close business loophles allowing 99 year leases to each other to avoid new assessments, keeping their assessed values at the 1974 level.

January 26, 2009, 2:42 PM

BILL kOPE

you clowns can tax golf but can;t stop people from ditching Ca for Az and paying no golf tax and cutting their income tax in half....Arnold...you have turned into a dumbass lib

January 26, 2009, 3:02 PM

Bill

Just like Michael Savage says: Liberalism is a Mental Disorder! Don't worry about the golf tax. Obama and his henchmen will get you in places that hurt a lot more! I guess I'm not that compaaaaaaaasionate for people that are lazy, stupid and uneducated...or have a swing like Charles Barkley! Fore! Incoming taxes...

January 26, 2009, 3:21 PM

Butch

The state is in a budget crunch and really does need help but where should the help come from, especially at a troubling time for all of us? As a self-employed businessman for many years, I have had to manage my finances constantly, making sure that I do NOT spend more that I take in. It appears that the government we have elected has not been doing the job to the satisfaction of the people and has unsuccessfully managed the finances of the state. As a businessman for thirty five years, I have managed to survive all of the trends and downturns in income due to reduced sales and assorted financial difficulties related to the current economy at that time.

I don't have the luxury of increasing prices that might be out of line with the current market just to manage my budget. I cut out the fat when and where needed no matter what. I don't have the ability to make increases in pricing (or taxes as the state does it) to cover bad spending without having to deal with the negative (to the public) effect caused by the increase. Spend wisely has always been a daily effort to keep things in perspective with the market.

As an avid golfer, bowler, snow skier, softball player and bicyclist, I think your thoughts and possible plans to place a TAX on things we do for recreation is a move in the wrong direction. Placing a tax on golf for instance is like telling me that you spent too much on some other useless or worthless program and you want me to help pay for your decision. Wrong decision.

Taxing your way back into health does nothing to solve the original problem. Eliminate the fat everywhere (immediately), as hard as it might seem to accomplish. Yes, you will surely step on some toes along the way but those are the ones that have been living off the fat for way too long anyway.

Evaluate, organize and accomplish your plan today and always. Don't spend more that you have to spend and be sure to save a little for those troubling times we all face along the way. You didn't cause the problem in the first place but you are the one responsible for getting us healthy again as a state government. Be careful what you tax as you will be held responsible for the downturns caused by your own bad choices.

Golf is here to stay, you are not. Don't make that mistake and hurt that industry any more than it is already hurting. We won't forget!!!

Respectfully submitted,

Butch Maxwell

So. CA Veteran

January 26, 2009, 10:05 PM

tony

Instead of bickering about liberal or conservative faults, I sent my

comments to the governor and my representative as to how I thought

the singling out of golf as a service was not fair and how I opposed it.

I agree with those who have pointed out that golf may have been

singled out due to a perception of being elitist and for the rich, but as a

service?

Fact is that each of us golfers pay to play, in addition some may pay

annual dues or membership fees to a club or through property taxes to

support their local muni.

In reality, in a tough economy, an additional golf tax will likely mean that

some of us may play fewer rounds or visits to the range in the year, in

any case it will probably reduce revenue at some courses or result in

some to close.

Some of my views would probably label me as being liberal, but as far as

economics are concerned my views tend to the conservative.

While our legislature may be economically inept at setting a budget and

I don't know if it is mandated by law, but why budget 100% of your

income to be spent, why not mark some percent as emergency funds?

Also, how can you budget spending when additional spending is placed

on you by others?

In our last state election I recall numerous bond measures, many even

seemed to make sense, but I voted no on everyone anyway, after I had

considered the billions of additional debt load these bonds meant to an

already over stretched state and local economy.

Now there were legislators who backed various bond measures, but it

was the voters who decided to take on the additional debt and the

consequences this meant.

tony

January 27, 2009, 9:05 AM

Sean

Legislators, please tell me, when will it be enough? How much taxing do you think people can absorb? You seem to keep finding reasons and ways to take my money from me yet never seem to be able to cut spending or reduce costs. The people won't put up with this much longer.

January 27, 2009, 9:31 AM

Bernie Madoff

California state government spent $145 billion last fiscal year, $41 billion more than four years ago when Gov. Gray Davis got recalled by voters. With all that new spending -- a whopping 40% increase -- we ought to be in a golden age of government with abundant public services for all.

So why does it seem like the quality and quantity of government is not all that different from 2004? How many of us feel like we are getting 40% more public services, 40% better schools, roads, parks and so on?

So go on, keep electing these morons...

January 27, 2009, 11:24 AM

Justin Hernandez

How about body building and steroid using? Is the govenor's past hobbies going to be taxed?

January 27, 2009, 2:55 PM

Jean Heath

If Gov. Schwarzenegger keeps on, we'll be driving our golf carts (instead of our choice of cars) to par 3 courses because his EPA requirements which will essentially limit our choice of cars combined with his the golf tax will force many public & private courses to close. Thus, loss of businesses and jobs resulting in a massive decrease in revenues for the state. INSTEAD, THE GOVERNOR SHOULD FREEZE HIS SALARY, HIS STAFF'S AND, THOSE OF ALL THE LEGISLATORS AND THEIR STAFFS. ALSO, ELIMINATE MOST OF THEIR FREE PERKS! START CONSERVING AT THE TOP!

January 27, 2009, 6:53 PM

jbond7869

Somehow golf is perceived as a white collar sport, but in reality, golf is used in the same fashion we seek to get out of snowboarding, racing, boating, biking, etc... We pay a fee to use a facility to make use of our already taxed property we legitimately purchased using our already taxed income. Then we get IOUS for our refund?? Tell me I'm crazy.

January 27, 2009, 7:32 PM

Tom

In a contracting market like Golf, a tax is like putting the final nail is some courses coffin. Owners fighting to keep market share will be forced to absorb the tax and see operating income drop. Cut the help, go out of business, turn already depressed home's backyards in to weeds. Oh, this ones going to have a ripple, and it won't be pretty.

January 27, 2009, 8:21 PM

Clay Rogers

I am an avid golfer, First Tee volunteer, and a horticulture professional. Upcoming water restrictions from local water districts with increased penalties for over- watering will likely raise the price of golf 5-10% in the next few years. If the CA legislature adds another tax on top of that it will discourage great programs such the First Tee. At least think about how the tax will affect golf's future, youth golfers.

January 27, 2009, 11:02 PM

Mark Cavanaugh

Tax-and-spend budget use static analysis to forecast future revenue without considering that people DO change behavior in reaction to taxes. Some golfers will play less, or not at all because they either cannot afford the new tax or simply refuse to pay by electing not to play at all. Many privately owned golf course in California are struggling business operations. Less play will force some of them out of business. In summary, this tax will create unemployment and not bring in nearly the amount of revenue projected. It's a loser.

January 27, 2009, 11:54 PM

Dave

Let's get a tax on something everyone buys or needs - I suggest bread, milk, air, using the sidewalk, the list goes on! Or maybe we could get rid of all the liberal entitlement programs ( state and federal ).

January 30, 2009, 3:06 PM

Ed

We need to take the emotions out of the argument. Anyone with even a small bit of business knowledge could go in and make the necessary cuts if that was possible. It is not. Politicians care about 4 things. 1. Self- 2. Party- 3. Special Interests- 4. Reelection. The high tech business world made cuts in the 80's, knowing that to stay in business one has to manage costs. The Government has never cut anything, it is loathed to do so. No one wants to give up even a part of their fiefdom. The first cuts should be made to all state (and Federal) government workers benefits. That includes and should start with politicians. Not an easy task as the unions are a huge special interest group. It does however, need to be done. There needs to be a civilian oversight team to make the other cuts as required. This team needs to be neutral and unaffected by the political morass including all that goes with it. Yes, we also need a balance of power in Sacramento, but first we need to hold the politicians who are supposed to watching over everyone's interest accountable. That means more then sending an email, it means calling them and visiting their local offices to tell them to get the job done. The mess California is in is much bigger then the proposed golf tax. It is time for action and less words. Call you legislator and demand that they work together or you will vote for someone who will actually do the job.

January 31, 2009, 12:16 PM

joe tinsley

Thats Real smart NOTTTTTT!!!!!! HOW ABOUT NOT GIVING ILLEGAL ALIENS FREE MEDICAL CARE, HOW MANY BILLIONS WOULD THAT SAVE!!!!! ARE THE HIGHER UPS THAT STUPID???? THIS IS THE ONLY PROBLEM HERE......

January 31, 2009, 1:48 PM

Joe Tinsley

PART( 2) Oh yeh did i mention all the city workers doing NOTHING It gets old but really how often do you see them ALL working, its just a milk job

January 31, 2009, 9:16 PM

Alan

Wether you are democrat or republican you are being let down by those you elected to represent you, their inability to approve a budget is criminal negligence. Both parties continue to cling to outdated ideology that is not relevant to todays crisis. Put your politics aside and do the right thing for out great state. Everything costs more nowadays and that means we all need to ante up to cover the costs of all the public services we need. Raise the sales tax on everything, do not randomly pick and choose this or that for selective taxation. The ignorance and selfishness of our current elected legislature could not be more apparent. And if we continue to elect these same worthless representatives, SHAME ON US!

February 2, 2009, 9:25 PM

Jay

I am recently retired, with a fixed income. Golf is my passion and very important to my physical well being. Singling out golf as your way to solving the budget mess that our elected politicians have put us in seems both unfair and counter productive to keeping California a go to destination for vacationers, let alone a place for people to retire to. The people of California are really tired of watching our elected officials do nothing to get us out of this financial mess without any apparent personal consequences. How about holding back on their pay ot give them IOU's until they actually do something other than spend us into bankruptsey. So tired of watching the democrats and republicans blame each other for this problem and then come up with the lame idea of taxing golf as their way out of our financial woes. What they probably don't understand is that the tax will hurt the golfing industry in California at best and might kill it all together at worst. Something for Sacramento to be proud of NOT!

February 3, 2009, 3:37 PM

Steve Walsh

This must be a joke to single out golf in lieu of other sports that attract

many more participants.(such as bowling) But what really needs to be done is stop wasteful government spending ! we elect you to govern the state, not to single out a given member of it's society. Whats next

a ethnic tax, or a religious tax ? Ultimately it will not matter anyway

because you will spend that much more, and our commander & chief will just sign another bail out, and print more bogus bucks !

February 5, 2009, 12:08 PM

KT

Let's go with the Religious Tax! Religious organizations pay no property taxes, no income taxes, no tax on anything. There is enough money to get CA out of its mess if we would just start taxing the religious organizations. Why do you think there are SOOOOOO many so-called religious organizations.....

But....you say...what about the separation of church and state? WHEN IS THE LAST TIME WE WENT THROUGH AN ELECTION WHERE RELIGIOUS ORGANIZATIONS DIDN'T GIVE THERE OPINIONS, LECTURE THEIR CONGREGATIONS OF THE RIGHTS AND WRONGS OF THE CANDIDATE/BILL, OR IN MANY CASES, DONTATE MONEY TO THE CAMPAIGN.

TAX THE RELIGIOUS ORGANIZATIONS....or quit providing services to them paid by tax payer dollars.

Next thing you know, clergy will go play golf, and not be taxed!!!

February 5, 2009, 1:29 PM

Don

Why doesn't the state follow the same rules the averge citizen follows.Don't spend more than you take in.In our current ecomomy,we must seperate our wants from our needs.Some sacrifices must be made,some programs will be affected.

Taxing golf will not resolve the budget crisis,accountability and common sense must prevail.Isn't that what we expect from our elected officials?

February 5, 2009, 2:02 PM

rich

There have been alot of courses built in the last 10 years. The problem is that many are in trouble because of the added competition. Many not able to cover their own debt. The golf tax will compound their problems and make sure of their demise!

February 5, 2009, 3:50 PM

Don

Listen everyone, of course they need more money, but why does that translate to taxing golf, or anything for that matter? I'll tell you why. Because they think golf is only played by the affluent and that they will pay and not complain. Well, once it starts, they will not stop it, just like all the other taxes we pay, state and federal. THE SOLUTION IS FOR THE STATE LEGISLATURE IN SACRAMENTO (AND THE U.S. CONGRESS) TO CUT THINGS OUT OF THE BUDGET, JUST LIKE YOU AND I HAVE TO DO WITH OUR PERSONAL BUDGETS. Given the opportunity, every person reading this could find items in the state and federal budgets that are not necessary, but are never cut because they represent some form of payback to a particular voting group. It is time we wise up, and have all the WEALTHY ELITISTS in government start doing their job. Think about it, do you know any poor politicians, i.e., Kennedy's, Kerry, Gore, Bush, Clinton, our Governor, and the list goes on and on? While you are thinking, who do you think got us into this mess? The same people in Sacramento and Washington, D.C., who now claim they know how to get us out of the mess, i.e., Pelosi, Reid, et. al.. Just remember "socialism is great until you run out of other people's money to spend", and that time may just be coming if we do not insist otherwise. If you've gotten this far, thanks for listening.

February 5, 2009, 7:32 PM

cag4

Here's what I wrote to the Governor:

Dear Governor S.

As a regular golfer I am writing to support the tax on golf under consideration.

Although we all hate to pay additional fees and taxes, times are tough. Golf is a leisure activity. It also takes significant resources including land, water, and human resources (for public courses paid by taxes and for private courses paid by commercial interests). I would much rather have a small fee tacked onto each round of golf than see other non-leisure, vital services or people cut from the budget... I suspect that groundskeepers and personnel from California's magnificent municipal courses would be on the chopping block.

If paying an additional 10% on my leisure time will help the economy of California, I'm happy to pay it.

February 5, 2009, 9:06 PM

rich

Well said, Don

February 6, 2009, 11:32 AM

Greg

Its simple.....Cut spending and quit doling out welfare checks to those who contribute nothing to soceity.

The answer was simple years ago when this state could have elected Tom McClintock but decided on an uneducated b actor instead.

Liberals & Democrats are the problem, just check out any major city in this nation, or any urban school system in the nation, they are run by democrats and they are a mess.

Of course democrats wanted to fight the war against poverty and after 7 trillion dollars we have an illegetimacy rate of over 70% in the black community with the percentages of hispanics & whites climbing as well, let alone all the people the liberals have indirect responsibility of killing by replacing the Father with the state.

Now the libs are at war with traditonal marriage, along with the tacit approval in the killing of the unborn.

Wake Up People and rid yourself of the mindset that other people owe you a living.

Greg......Started with nothing and worked hard to get where I'm at.

February 6, 2009, 4:29 PM

Simon

Let's face it, the state employees and their unions own California. Many of them are double and triple dipping on their pensions. The only way that the legislature and governor can continue to pay these exorbitant pensions is to raise taxes. They talk about cutting costs, but reducing pension benefits for state employees is never mentioned. Public employee pensions are bankrupting cities, and they will eventually bankrupt California.

February 6, 2009, 5:34 PM

Jerry

I was a blue collar worker my entire life. I paid my taxes as most everyone did. High dollar employees also paid their taxes but also benefited from a system that allowed them to deduct many leisure activities from their taxes as business expenses. I do not begrudge that but now that I have retired an able to play golf at courses that offer residents a lower rate if I get to the course at 4am to get a tee time, I will be taxed more. How rediculase is that. What happened to the lottery money that was earmarked for the schools? Please remember that golf is a luxury as boating, bowling, softball, surfing and any leisure activity we as residents so choose to participate in

February 6, 2009, 6:57 PM

Jim

The governor needs to look in his own house and clean up all the agencys that spend a large sum of money with little or no return. It might improve the bottom line in the state budget.

February 6, 2009, 8:36 PM

Dennis O

Golf represents a very small percentage of revenues. It is probably best that the general sales tax increase by 1% or more with the increases expiring within a certain period such as 3 years. The sales tax increase should provide exemptions to seniors with fixed income. This will bring immediate income to the state, however, this will not fix the root cause of the problem. It is obvious that we have too many state workers to support the state programs. We must cut back. This will hurt but we are now as a state of California, bankrupt.

Dennis Osaka

February 6, 2009, 10:40 PM

J.C.

Just like the Beatles song "Taxman"...."if you get too cold I'll TAX the heat; if you try to walk I'll TAX your feet, CUZ I'm the TAXMAN!!!"

February 7, 2009, 1:05 PM

J.C.

Time to get active and UNELECT this entire California legislature....they are SPENDING this state into recievership....taking from anyone that can "afford" to pay and REDISTRIBUTE your money (taxes) to the under insured, under employed or just plain too lazy to become productive. This will continue until we close these borders and think "AMERICA FIRST"...Arnold is not the answer either!!!!

February 7, 2009, 1:10 PM

Norbert Wilson

Absurd! Taxing Cigarettes& liquor helps to stop habits which in turn saves the state millions in health care. Even gasoline tax helps to lower consumption helps the environment and saves money. Golf provides recreation for all (especially our senior population) and makes us healthier. It is an activity that families can participate in together. It provides an enviroment where juniors can learn solid values to become productive adults. Taxing this would limit participation (mostly the less fortunate among us) in an activity that Californians have grown to Love and has been so beneficial to us. Please rethink this rediculous tax.

Norbert Wilson

PGA of America

February 7, 2009, 3:49 PM

WALTER HUNTER

We all are golfers, we all need to keep in mind that for the most part we will continue playing this game until our health not allow us to play, we may not play as often, but we will play.

I think back a few years, when this game was a rich person's sport, this taxes look to be trying to reduce the number of people that can pay the cost to play this game.

Our leaders in Sacramento and DC are always making these proposals without getting input from the base and with out developing a fully focus plan. Lets look @ a fully focus play for the state and fed budget situation before we start talking about taxing this and taxing that.

February 8, 2009, 2:37 PM

EP

On top of what you pay as non-resident, golf tax will be added too? Being cheap is not bad especially with the current economy. I used to go to courses more 60 miles from home but I stopped because of gas expenses (although it got better during election then rised up again) and the traveling plus the non-resident fee. Now they will add golf tax? I don't know what else but I agree with other golfers that legislator should not single out the sport golf. It should be all recreation sports. I'll take my kids to miniature golf or just let them play at their playstation console.

February 9, 2009, 12:45 PM

J Wagner

If golf is taxed then the monies collected should go towards golf. I am an RV'er and have seen the state campground fees increase with the explanation that the fees get pooled and distributed to keep all facilities open. A golf tax is just another excuse for our legislators not to have to do their jobs and live within the states means. If the state is supporting golf courses then there should be a tax. If not, then pick my pocket some other way.

February 9, 2009, 5:41 PM

G. Miles

Make the City of Concord give back the money that they are siphoning off Diablo Creek Golf Course and putting into the General Fund instead of putting it back into the golf course and the tax would be understandable.

However, that does not address private or non-city owned courses. STOP sending needless entourages of people to other cities and countries who can't derive any tangible knowledge to affect a change in government. GET RID of the tax burdens in government and we won't need this discussion.

February 10, 2009, 1:38 PM

Richard

My wife and I are retired and living on Social Security & savings. After retiring we moved to a gated community that offers golf plus other amenities. We paid taxes for many years and have looked forward to retirement. Of course when we moved our new home was assessed at the purchase price so we are paying over $5,000 per year in property taxes, which includes $1,000 per year for sewer upgrades that the state EPA requires in rural communities.

Also being in a gated community we have our own security

so what benefit do I receive for the property taxes I pay every year? I believe that we are paying more than our fair share already and if you impose a tax on golf you will be taxing many seniors that are hurting already. I suspect that senior make up the majority of golfers in the state.

Many states have property tax relief for seniors and with the present state of the economy you will adding insult to injury!

Sincerely,

Richard Kramer

February 11, 2009, 12:41 PM

Dennis O

I don't want my tax dollars to go to pension benefits for the vested state workers.

February 11, 2009, 11:30 PM

R. B. Jeffrey

Bob is an idiot or something similar. Let's see how much golf is taxed already. Let us say you live 10 miles from the golf course and you get 20 mpg. You just paid $0.38 cents tax on the gallon of gas it took you to get there plus another $0.78 sales tax on that gallon of gas. Let is assume that like the average golfer you loose 3 golf balls in a round. Well you just paid another $0.52 tax on the golf balls. After or during the round if you had an $8.00 lunch you paid another $0.70 and if you had a beer, 22% of the cost of the beer was tax. Let's see that would be another $0.77. OK. the total is now $3.15 in hidden taxes for the round of golf. If you earn more than $45,000.00 per year and live in California you paid 9% tax before you took home your paycheck that you drew from to pay for the round of golf. For God's sake man, aren't you being taxed enough?

July 17, 2009, 7:36 PM

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