I don’t often editorialize on the front page but for today I will.

In reading the wire services this morning I notice that “oil and cash” rich Alberta is having a problem with reduced revenue due to world oil prices. The BC budget also shows that cuts are being made in program and services because oil and gas revenue is not meeting expectations.

I know I must be naïve – but shouldn’t the taxpayers pay for the services of government and modulating revenues (up and down) from the riches under the ground should be used for reserves, capital projects and not operational costs.

It’s a bit like running a household or a small business. – don’t spend more than you take in. Don’t use your lottery winnings to hire a maid.

If both governments in Alberta and BC would tax the people for the services they demand then we would have a true cost to face each year rather than a false economy because politicians put “special revenue” into the mix.

Fluctuating revenue should never be put into general revenue and spent on wages and the cost of the lights. The people must face this cost.

When the budget is up 2% the taxes go up 2 percent. Or you look for savings by cutting something out.

Maybe its too simple of a concept.