Murphys, CA…The next town hall meeting for the State of Jefferson, is Monday, November 30, at the Native Sons Hall, Main Street in Murphy’s. The meeting is free to the public and begins at 6 pm. Speaker for the event is Steve Baird, the chief architect of the financial model for the future state. Two weeks ago, approximately 200 residents attended a town hall in Sutter Creek, and in October, well over 100 attended a meeting in San Andreas. Committees have now been formed in Amador, Calveras and Tuolumne Counties, where more and more, you will see Jefferson flags waving in the breeze.

Why is support growing for the 51st State? Because people in northern rural counties are concerned about the future of their families, living in a state whose government has grown too large, with its 570 bureaucratic agencies/departments, with their burdening regulations. A state where elections and legislation is dictated by Southern California and bay area voters. The fire fee (tax) is a perfect example; authored by a Southern California lawmaker and passed by urban legislators.

Did you know that Northern California rural counties have only 1 senator for 11 counties, while Los Angeles County has 11 senators for 1 county. Eighty-eight percent of your property tax dollars go to the state, leaving counties with 12%. Do you want your tax dollars to go for delta tunnels and a bullet train? Another water bond, that does not include construction of dams? A state with billions and billions of dollars in unfunded liabilities and bonds, with more taxes and bonds slated for the 2016 ballot. And last week, the state treasurer, announced that California and local governments are $1.5 trillion dollars in debt. Is this the legacy you want to leave your children or grandchildren?

The 51st State offers greater independence, less taxes, more local control and less regulatory agencies. Each county will have an elected state senator. Counties will keep the biggest bulk of their property taxes in their coffers, instead of sending to Sacramento. Less mandated, unfunded state programs. No corporate income tax and reintroduction of timber harvests, with common sense management practices, all bringing new business and jobs.

The name of the 51st State will be decided by its citizens, who will also select the site of its state capitol and design of the state flag. Each county will have delegates to draft the state constitution. Each county and its citizens will have a say in the choice of school curriculum and text books. In other words, you will finally have a voice and law makers who represent you and your counties needs.

Is this all constitutional and financially viable? Do you want to know more? This is you opportunity to learn more and meet some of the people from the other 12 counties who have signed declarations, to withdraw from the State of California.

Call your friends and neighbors. Attend the Town Hall meeting on November 30th. Find out why so many are saying, “It’s Time for the 51st State.

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