I thought of a perfect analogy.
You are on Madtappers softball team in 2007. You have 14 players on the team and your portion of the team's league fees and uniforms is $125. In 2008, 3 players leave the team and you add 1 because you would really prefer to carry only 12 anyway. Let's say now the cost of the uniforms goes up a bit for 2008 because the team votes to go with something a bit nicer this year. Now, in 2008, your player fee is $165...2 less players to share the total cost with and higher expenses because you went with slightly nicer gear.
In most local governments, union employees are guaranteed at least a COLA (Cost Of Living Allowance) each year and medical coverage goes up each year 6%-10%....not to mention the increase to employer contribution to PERS (Public Employee Retirement System) that just hit in September. So, expenses are going up without even sinking a dime into capital improvements. Now the # of teams starts going down as well....higher expenses, fewer customers....and a requirement to be fully fee supported. Prices go up based on decreased volume and increased costs.
You are on Madtappers softball team in 2007. You have 14 players on the team and your portion of the team's league fees and uniforms is $125. In 2008, 3 players leave the team and you add 1 because you would really prefer to carry only 12 anyway. Let's say now the cost of the uniforms goes up a bit for 2008 because the team votes to go with something a bit nicer this year. Now, in 2008, your player fee is $165...2 less players to share the total cost with and higher expenses because you went with slightly nicer gear.
In most local governments, union employees are guaranteed at least a COLA (Cost Of Living Allowance) each year and medical coverage goes up each year 6%-10%....not to mention the increase to employer contribution to PERS (Public Employee Retirement System) that just hit in September. So, expenses are going up without even sinking a dime into capital improvements. Now the # of teams starts going down as well....higher expenses, fewer customers....and a requirement to be fully fee supported. Prices go up based on decreased volume and increased costs.
