What really happens when populations decline for five decades? The tax burden gets heavier for those who stay.

Recent budget discussions in Fredonia and the fiscal crisis that is now apparent in Dunkirk show this dilemma more than ever. Both the village and city lose revenue when businesses close and individuals relocate. Those who leave were a source of cash, whether utilizing water and sewer or paying into the taxes.

For the two entities of 21,000 residents, the municipal budgets total $37 million — or $1,762 per resident. In the last three weeks we have seen how the city of Dunkirk is far from sustainable under its current plan.

Fredonia is not far behind. Costs for fire and police protection continue to rise with inflation. Water revenues are nowhere near what the expenses are.

Where does this leave those who remain? They spend more — in both property taxes and fees.

Dunkirk has not yet felt the pain, but it is definitely coming. Fredonia’s proposal — a possible 19% tax hike — will likely be whittled down but it’s still going to be a burden.

Government is not an economic engine. It needs to allow a community to grow.

Budgets that demand more funding for dwindling communities will not reverse the shrinking trend.