Amarillo Hears Abbott's Pitch for Lower Costs

So it's here: $25,000. A chance for you to be able to turn your fortunes around, replenish that savings account that has been depleted simply by the cost of living in Amarillo these days. It's not just here; it's everywhere.

Those vacations you used to take didn't happen this year, or maybe they were severely scaled back. Instead of Disneyland for a week, it was Six Flags in Dallas for a day. It's not anything you're doing wrong; it's just the economy and how expensive it's gotten to live.

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Why Life Is So Expensive

Let's start with gas prices. I drove past a convenience store yesterday and noticed the price of gas was sitting at $3.99 per gallon. Look, gas prices never get close to $4 per gallon here. The cost of food is rising, so you're getting less for what you normally spend. Healthcare costs are out of control, and everyday items are rising as well.

Some of these things are simply out of our control; we can't change the prices of these things to help us save some money. Many people are struggling, and some who never used to struggle are finding it harder to live. However, it does appear something may be in the works.

Affordability Agenda

So what is the "Affordability Agenda"? It's something Gov. Greg Abbott has introduced in his campaign for re-election. He showed up at Oliver Saddle Shop to speak to residents of Amarillo and explain what the agenda is.

Some of the things he talked about were property-tax relief, some insurance savings, lower copays when it comes to certain medications, reducing college costs, and greater electricity-provider choice. All of these things would provide relief to many Amarillo residents to be able to afford life a bit more comfortably.

He also talked about plans he has to keep Texas more affordable and expand economic opportunities, which would be a great thing for small-business owners in the city.