Commentary: LP overpays for Christmas tree?
The Patriot-News over the weekend ran an article about Lower Paxton Supervisor David Blain (pictured) selling the township a 10-foot Christmas tree from his tree sales lot for $80. The tree is on display in the lobby at the municipal center on Prince Street.Blain said the tree cost him $40 and he charged the township his regular markup price.
This story is a tad silly because the transaction barely registers in the township's general fund budget that will total just over $19 million next year. The township has purchased trees from Blain for the last few years as a matter of convenience. According to the article, this type of transaction does not violate state law.
I wonder who tipped off the newspaper because $80 transactions usually don't attract attention and are not mentioned during public meetings.
Next year the township should consider buying a tree from Linglestown Village Market located across from the Blue Moose Bar and Grill. I purchased a great looking eight-foot tree (pictured) from them for $29.
CLICK HERE to read the article.
posted by B² @ 12:47 PM
2 comments
2 Comments:
I think someone making 100% markup can afford to donate a tree to the township instead of nickle and diming residents. But since I'm no longer an LP resident, I guess I'm not in a valid position to do more than cringe at the the lack of oversight.
First, I don't think the township should be buying a Christmas tree at all with taxpayers' money. (I don't think there should be one in the Capitol rotunda, either.) Having a tree implies that the township endorses one religion over another.
Second, although it may not be illegal, supervisors should not sell anything at all to the township -- period. And especially if they make a 100% profit from it. Why didn't he donate the tree or at the very least sell it for what it cost him?
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