Looking at a $33 million dollar hole in 2009 (page 41), democratic county commissioners have made $14 million in cuts, cajoled $10 million in concessions from it labor unions (to say nothing about finding a rather innovative use of a pizza box), and now have their sights set on local residents to make up the difference.

Without seeking voter approval, Macomb County Commissioners are pushing for a tax hike from 4.2 mills to 4.56 mills.

Speaking in favor of a tax increase, democratic county commissioner Brian Brdak stated, "It's something we definitely have to consider. There aren't a lot of other options."

But to show that Macomb County democrats aren't totally heartless, they will be conducting a "listening tour" to ram through, er, "convince" Macomb County residents about the "need" for a tax hike.

The tour is scheduled for Tuesday, March 3rd, when most residents are working,um, I mean, at these convenient times and locations:

8:00am : Mount Clemens - Mt. Clemens Public Library, 150 Cass.

12 Noon : New Haven - New Haven Medical Center, 58311 Gratiot.

5:00 p.m: Roseville - Roseville City Hall, 29777 Gratiot.

7:30 pm: Sterling Heights - Sterling Heights Public Library, 40255 Dodge Park.