Angels with one wing can only fly when they embrace each other.  We have to have this huge embracing activity so we can survive collectively or die collectively.

-La Mesa Mayor Art Madrid, quoted in the San Diego Union-Tribune, May 29, 2009

Madrid's words were in response to Union-Tribune reporter Helen Gao's inquiry about his attendance at the League of California Cities' recent conference on Vacation Isle in Mission Bay.  His reference was to "embracing" politicians from other California municipalities.  It is unknown whether this refers to a big "group hug" or something more sinister (given the stated alternative of "dying collectively"). 

But when it comes to "embracing" the responsibility, shared with his fellow citizens, to pay his taxes, is Madrid not so touchy-feely?  This information came to me via email yesterday:

Add La Mesa Mayor Art Madrid to the list of elected officials who do NOT practice what they preach.

According to the SD County Treasurer’s website, Madrid is almost two months past due on completing payment for the $5,025.61 property tax bill due on 4/10/09.  Separately he has defaulted on a $70.56 bill due in 2007, which is still outstanding.  Go to https://www.sdctreastax.com/ebpp3/(lfns00552ses4pmfzpytasjo)/Start.aspx and type in the address "7630 Eastridge" [then select "Drive" from the drop-down menu.  Use Zip Code 91941].

In my opinion, these two separate tax problems indicate we have a Mayor who can't handle finances. 

Last year, Madrid claimed the city was running out of “revenue.”  He was instrumental in placing Proposition L (sales tax increase in La Mesa) on the ballot and he campaigned for it.  Never mind the San Diego County Taxpayers Association's and the Union-Tribune’s assertions that the city didn’t need to raise taxes, but rather reform the gold-plated pensions public employees receive in La Mesa.

If La Mesa needs more tax revenue, shouldn't its Mayor lead by example?

Is this another example of special treatment for the Mayor?

Perhaps, like GM, Madrid thinks he is just "too big to fail"?

Maybe he is simply preparing for a high-level appointment in the Obama Administration?

[Below is a screenshot (size limited due to Red County layout) obtained by following the link noted above.  Additional details can be found at the referenced URL.]