The Durham city manager has proposed a budget with a property tax increase. A tax increase that is needed to help pay for all the bonded debt voters approved, we’re told.

Recall that the city of Charlotte is steaming toward putting $200m. worth of debt on the November ballot. Should voters fall for that deal, guess what happens next year when the responsible thing to do would be for city council to vote to cut the property tax rate in order to keep taxes flat after the reval? Nope, can’t do that — not and pay for the bonds you just approved. Instant 10 to 20 percent property tax hike for many residents.

Oh, and don’t forget — if you love Baby Jesus and want to go to Heaven, you have to vote for the bonds.