Voters in Deer Creek Township were met outside the polls yesterday by Township Trustee Neda Kay Duff or one of her volunteers. They were presenting voters with two "Referendums" which they were asking them to vote yes or no to and sign.

The first referendum stated, "It has been proposed that the governing body of Deer Creek Township transfer the sum of $60,000 to The Carroll County Historical Museum, a local tax-supported organization."

The second referendum stated, "It has been proposed that the governing body of Deer Creek Township transfer the sum of $10,000 to Carroll Manor, a local tax-supported institution for the support and maintenance of the elderly."

Both referendums concluded with, "By my signature and my indication of approval or disapproval, I provide my opinion on the issue to the Deer Creek Township governing body."

Several things seem wrong with this process.

• Calling this a referendum sounds official, when the trustee herself said that they were just gathering opinions. Why not call it a public survey?

• Why was this the first time voters learned of these proposals? Duff told the Comet that she and her advisory board had been discussing this since September.

• A voter is not necessarily a taxpayer. Is it appropriate for "voters" to decide how to spend "taxpayer" money? Are they going to check their "voter" list against a list of "taxpayers?"

• It would be prudent at this time with unknown economic circumstances to hold on to surplus funds that could be used to take care of indigent seniors who cannot pay their taxes if this country realizes a prolonged economic downturn.

• According to the "Here's Your Indiana Government" book, the township is chiefly responsible for financing and administration of poor relief and helping to provide fire assistance.

Both the Carroll County Historical Museum, a 501(c)(3) organization (not tax supported), and Carroll Manor, a government entity, are worthy causes, but neither organization fits the above criteria.

Organizations with more closely related purposes would be the Carroll County Council on Aging and the Carroll County Food Pantry, not to mention the Delphi Tri-Township Volunteer Fire Department.

Deciding how to spend leftover taxpayer money should be an open process with discussion and feedback, not a two-choice ambush on voters on Election Day.

Taxpayers can be assured though, that any proposed use of the funds will have to be approved at a public hearing after being advertised in the newspaper. Taxpayers in Deer Creek Township will have a heads-up next time.