Debt & Taxes

[HarrySpooner]

Before introducing legislation in the Senate. I would like the opinion of our citizens on the subject of debt and taxes. Personally and philosophically, it is my hope that our Republic would be debt and tax free.

[JasonMckerra]

Taxation in a tradition sense wont work in Lavalon, we can't really compel people to part with money in order to participate. I like the status quo, where we call for the occasional donation from citizens, and tithe the government.

Re debt: I have nothing against debt, so long as it is good debt. Good debt being an investment in something that will work out more valuable to us than the cost of the debt. I would have nothing against us borrowing money in order to buy land, but I would oppose borrowing (for example) to cover ordinary operational expenses.

[HarrySpooner]

There is such a thing as constructive debt. As a last resort, if there is a deal too good to pass up on land, then yes I suppose it could be worthwhile. My preference is that we find ways of raising money without becoming debtors. Let's become a creditor nation. I believe in some ways through kiva.org we are at the point. Heck, our books are among the best in the world.

[JasonMckerra]

If I had a choice between buying land free and clear, or borrowing, I know which I'd choose. But that said, if there is a good deal going, I'm not waiting until I've saved every last penny!

For instance, that land I highlighted in northern New South Wales, the things I micronation could do with that sort of space...

[Gottingen]

The concept seems ok, but the implementation is where the trouble will be.

I suppose I'd have to have some idea what the funds are for, beyond trivial amounts.

[JasonMckerra]

Absolutely, before we can really ask citizens to contribute any significant amount, we have to have a decent plan to pitch.

More on that soon... ;-)

[vasroe]

As some of you may have figured out, I am Vasroixe of old, usurper of the Broeck throne in Lavalon.  It's good to see, as this thread shows, Lavalon returning to its roots as a place for the discussion, debate, and simulated implementation of ideas.  This should help it flourish and grow.

In case some of your are wondering, while I would rejoin Lavalon, having done so at least twice in the past, for its several incarnations, right now I just do not have the time or interest to participate.  However I have become somewhat involved in the simulationist sector of micro-nationalism, where anything goes, where you could start a nation based on a dream you had of a planet called Xonberg, where everyone is chartreuse and you are absolute Emperor (actual title: Zurgatron-Dex), and everyone knows it.  Real ideas, ideals, etc. just do not apply there because it is all for entertainment. 

[JasonMckerra]

Mr Vasroixe, under the laws of this republic, you are already entitled to exercise citizenship by virtue of your previous involvement.

There is no obligation to do anything, but if you wish the govt will issue a citizens card.

No coups please!

[Brandon]

Does that apply for me as well?  I was never a member of your Lavalon, Jason, just some of the ones after the coup, essentially, but I have applied.

[JasonMckerra]

It applies to you as well Brandon, under the law of this republic, all former Lavalonians have the right to return.

Welcome back!

[Brandon]

Wonderful. I thought I would never bother to return to micronationalism again, and I was quite sure of this, but the circumstances of this are just right to make me want to come back, basically because you're here and it has the name Lavalon.  I didn't realize at first that Jason was you.