No. 1 (Solar energy choice): Vote No
Do not be deceived by the clever wording of Amendment 1. Under the guise of giving eco-friendly electrical freedom to consumers and establishing the right to own or lease solar equipment — a right we already have — it really creates more power for the largest supporters of the amendment, the Consumers for Smart Solar, which is comprised almost entirely of utility companies that have invested over $25 million in making sure the amendment passes. In reality, all this amendment does is move power away from consumers and into the hands of those few companies, which plan on monopolizing the industry. Please, dear reader, vote “No” on Amendment 1. Doing so shows disapproval for monopolistic tendencies over an otherwise amazing and eco-friendly initiative.
No. 2 (Medical marijuana): Vote Yes
The passage of Amendment 2 would allow those who suffer from cancer, epilepsy, glaucoma, HIV/AIDS, post-traumatic stress disorder, Lou Gehrig’s disease, Crohn’s disease, Parkinson’s disease and multiple sclerosis access to medical marijuana if prescribed from their physician. The science is overwhelmingly clear that their lives would be ameliorated overwhelmingly if they were granted access to medical marijuana. We encourage you all to show some respect, and vote “Yes” on Amendment 2 so as not to further harm those already suffering from terrible conditions.
No. 3 (Tax exemption for disabled first responders): Vote Yes
This constitutional amendment would allow first responders who are “totally and permanently disabled as a result of injuries sustained in the line of duty” to be relieved from certain taxes. We here at the Alligator believe those who serve us and our communities ought to be recognized in a respectful manner. We are indebted to these individuals, and when one of these individuals is injured trying to protect, serve and help his or her fellow community members, it is a tragedy not only for that person and his or her family, but also for those who care about that individual. We urge you to vote “Yes” of this amendment as a way to recognize and express gratitude to those who have sacrificed more than we can ever imagine to keep our communities safe.
No. 5 (Tax exemption for low-income seniors): Vote Yes
As it stands, the Florida Tax Code has some minor inconsistencies in terms of how it taxes property. In 2012, Florida passed an amendment that allowed property-tax exemptions for residents aged 65 or older in a home that is worth less than $250,000 and a household income less than $25,000. But as the value of these homes rises, so does the assessed tax, which is unfair given that income remains the same. This amendment simply revisits this issue and would hopefully remedy the problem. We encourage you to vote “Yes” on this amendment.
Question Two (Wild Spaces and Public Places): Vote For
As Gainesville residents, we take pride in our city. Driving into Gainesville from any direction, it’s difficult to ignore the serene gorgeousness that surrounds our humble home. Voting “For” on this question affirms your belief that we should maintain environmental consciousness and allow the Alachua County Forever program to continue protecting our land, drinking water, water quality and wildlife habitats. These things, we remind you, are some of the things that make our city so beautiful in the first place.
