Why are local governments so predatory against the people who live in their townships?

Some local governments see their constituents only as ATMs to fund their various pet projects.

Fail Question. There is a little box called "Details" - try using it.

I spent 12 years on the local city council. We maintained a fixed budget while proving clean water, sewer treatment, street lights, police, fire response, emergency medical, fixing roads, snow plowing, etc. Our fire department is so good, it save me and every other resident around $450 a year on our home owners insurance. None of that is free.

And if you don't like it - go run for office and try to do better. If you don't have the balls to run for office you should probably just STFU.