Impuestos Municipales

Abstract

The image contains a news article that analyzes the Municipal Tax regime in Switzerland, which has increased enormously in the last twenty years, tripling in some cities and rising to $4 per head in Zurich. On average, municipal taxes in Switzerland are 2 dollars, while in 1868 they were less than 80 cents. In Bogotá, residents must pay different contributions throughout the year, including direct taxes according to the cadastre, taxes on permitted games, public shows, sales of liquor and foreign merchandise, and taxes on wheeled vehicles that travel through the city, among others. In total, these contributions add up to around 330,000 pesos per year. In addition to these contributions, the district collects another 90,000 pesos for leases and other services. Despite this, the amount of taxes paid by each resident of Bogotá is very low, around 90 cents per head. This has led to complaints about the management of public funds and a lack of improvements in the city. The need for services such as a large police force, well-maintained streets, electric lighting and charitable establishments is recognized. However, some people would prefer not to pay taxes and live in poor conditions. It is important to recognize that the national government has assumed municipal responsibilities that should be covered by district contributions. In general, it is requested that the national government return these responsibilities to the municipality of Bogotá, so that citizens decide if they are willing to pay for the services necessary to improve the quality of life in the city. This would prevent other cities from having to subsidize Bogotá's expenses and would avoid unfair rivalries. In summary, municipal taxes in Switzerland have increased significantly in recent years. In Bogotá, municipal contributions are low compared to other cities and it is considered necessary to increase them to cover the necessary services in the city. It is requested that the national government return municipal responsibilities to the municipality of Bogotá so that citizens can decide on their financing. News Published in the National Mail on January 26, 1891