Well, those cops and teachers don't work for free. Schools and fire stations don't just grow by themselves. Someone has to pay for them and that's what property taxes do. We knew it going in and nothing was kept secret. If they get out of hand, we can run for the Board of Supervisors and try to set it right. I've lived here for 40 years and so far, so good.
No they don't and some states have racked up multiple billions$ in debt, just to pay their generous tax paid retirement pensions alone.
Government now employs more people than any other business in the U.S. There are now more unionized government employees than in private sector America...
BTW, you seem to be one of those who've not yet experienced the steep decline...Yet.
Three cheers for you.