Here's how it was sold, at least in our town. The state gives X millions towards "improvements". In our case it was the town hall and school. We have about 2000 people. The town hall renovations cost $3mil. I believe the state put in $1mil and the bond (debt) was $2mil. So the town didn't have to "raise taxes" they jacked up assessments so people think their house is worth more. They're enticing spending by paying for some of it. Of course it was approved through a back door meeting with zero community feedback. It's like if someone offered you a Ferrari for half off. You think it's a good deal but you still have to finance $200,000 you can't afford.
Here's how it was sold, at least in our town. The state gives X millions towards "improvements". In our case it was the town hall and school. We have about 2000 people. The town hall renovations cost $3mil. I believe the state put in $1mil and the bond (debt) was $2mil. So the town didn't have to "raise taxes" they jacked up assessments so people think their house is worth more. They're enticing spending by paying for some of it. Of course it was approved through a back door meeting with zero community feedback. It's like if someone offered you a Ferrari for half off. You think it's a good deal but you still have to finance $200,000 you can't afford.