Angle Proposes "Greatest Generation Grant" for WWII Vets

As predicted on Wednesday, Don Cunningham's American Heroes Grant has finally meandered its way to Northampton County Council. Last night, Councilpersons Dertinger and McClure proposed on ordinance identical to the one adopted in Lehigh County on June 13. If adopted at council's next meeting, any member of the military deployed for four months either this or next year, will qualify for a full property tax rebate.

Slam dunk, nothing to talk about, right? Wrong. This is the People's Republic of Northampton County,

What I failed to predict is that Councilperson Ron Angle had an idea of his own. He calls a it a "sister ordinance," The Greatest Generation Grant (you can read it here). It's directed at WWII vets whose sole source of income is social security or veterans' benefits. It gives them full real estate tax rebates this and next year.

Like Emeril Lagasse, Angle takes Cunningham's good idea, and kicks it up a notch. BAM!

In addition to honoring soldiers who are currently in harm's way, why not also recognize aging soldiers whose sole source of income is social security and/or veterans' benefits? Where better to start than with the Greatest Generation, who silently endured deep sacrifices during the second world war?

As Angle explained after last night's meeting, he'd like to continue in succeeding years with Korean, Vietnam and Persian Gulf War vets as they get older and find themselves in need. Taking this approach, one conflict at a time, will also present less of a fiscal strain on the county. "If we are going to take care of the military, why not take care of all of the military?"

Angle also suggests some clarifications to the American Heroes Grant ordinance. The way it's drafted, most soldiers don't qualify unless they own real estate solely in their own name. Most people, including soldiers, share their property with a spouse or soulmate. Angle wants to make clear that a soldier qualifies, even if he shares his home with his wife or someone else.

Despite two really good proposals, last night's council meeting would not be complete without at least some theatrics. Angle, a little miffed that the American Heroes Grant program is sponsored by two council members who never spent a second in the service, called it "political grandstanding." He added no one has yet to apply for a rebate.

"That's not true," shot back Charles Dertinger.

Actually, Charles, it is. Cunningham's American Heroes Grant is a terrific idea, but it is largely symbolic. In the six weeks since Lehigh County has adopted this program, no one has applied for a rebate. I know that because I called yesterday. I'm sure that will change, but doubt there will be a flood of applicants.

Angle 1, Dertinger 0.

But don't worry, Dertinger got back at Angle. After Ron finished his pitch for the Greatest Generation Grant, Dertinger shook his head and said, "I'm just stunned at the level of political grandstanding."

Angle 1, Dertinger 1.

Fortunately, the game did not go into overtime. I don't really care what motivates them. A good idea is a good idea, even if for all the wrong reasons. The only question, and it's a biggie, is whether this is legal. Lehigh County's solicitors think so, but they won't be representing Northampton County if it gets sued.

Update: Dertinger Slams Vets! In remarks to Express Times reporter Sarah Cassi following last night's forty minute meeting, Council member Charles Dertinger proves voters were certainly right when they rejected his congressional bid. He actually suggests soldiers in Iraq have it tougher than WWII vets because they can be deployed multiple times. "It's not the same situation" as previous wars, according to Commander Charles.

Charles, they should all be honored. It's shameful your animosity towards Angle would cause you to disparage WWII vets, who often spent years overseas.