As a business owner in Blair Township, I am writing to express serious concern regarding the proposal by newly elected Township Supervisor Jacob Wible to impose a per-machine “licensing fee” on businesses operating Skills machines.

Though described as a licensing fee, its practical effect is an additional tax on small businesses. Regardless of terminology, it creates a new financial burden for locally owned establishments already coping with rising costs for utilities, insurance, payroll and property expenses.

This proposal is especially troubling given prior campaign assurances that no new taxes would be introduced. Many in the business community supported Mr. Wible based on commitments to fiscal restraint and a pro-business approach. Implementing a per-machine charge now raises legitimate questions about consistency and transparency in his governance.

For small restaurants, taverns, and convenience stores, Skills machines provide supplemental revenue that helps offset increasing operating costs. A per-machine fee will disproportionately affect locally owned businesses that form the backbone of our community.

This is not a partisan issue. It is about fairness, economic sustainability, and honoring commitments made to the business community. If additional revenue is necessary, there should be open dialogue, clear financial justification and thoughtful consideration of the cumulative impact on small enterprises.

The township will vote on this proposal at 6 p.m. Tuesday, March 10 at the Blair

Township Municipal Building,

375 Cedarcrest Drive, Duncansville. I encourage business owners and residents to attend and make their voices heard.

Mikhail Castillo

Hollidaysburg