Consolidate courthouses to better use funds

When a school district loses patronage it consolidates or simply disappears. When Iowa counties realize they are underfunded they plead for more revenue.

Would it not be more prudent in this day and age where internet/computer technology reduces the need for extensive brick and mortar courthouses to think about consolidating the over 100 county court houses into a smaller number? The reduction of staff, the lower maintenance of buildings and grounds, the freeing up of non tax paying property and the lesser cost of elections all lead to reducing the cost of government.

Surely any reasonable Iowan would be in favor of reducing their tax obligation and support such an approach. If one is ignored by those with a vested interest in excessive government costs, perhaps the motive of the reluctance to make cost saving a part of government reveals the attitude of those intent on perpetuating unnecessary taxation.

Dale Netherton

Farmington