Editor:
I have been complacently negligent in following our city’s business and must accept a share of guilt in my dissatisfaction with the 2014-2018 Financial Plan as outlined in the tax bill insert.
I might be able to accept one per cent to address inflationary cost although this is not reflected in my pension income.
However, the two per cent to provide a five-year fund to address “infrastructure deficits” shows how some council members are not in touch with the economics of the community.
How many of us would like to save two per cent of our income for personal “infrastructure deficits” such as roof or plumbing replacement but find it impossible to mange.
My math indicates that the city will have $724,106 in additional monies in 2014: $338,000 — reduced operating costs and $336,106 - additional income.
I will watch with interest the 2015 budget process.
We know that once a tax is in place, regardless of promises, it stays forever — witness income tax and GST.
I was unable to find the wording for the increased tax motion but city staff agreed with my interpretation that this motion is finite — that is, at this point the three per cent tax increase ends in 2018.
I urge you to keep this in mind when deciding how to cast your ballot in November, and question the candidates accordingly.
Thank you.
Alena Grosso
Williams Lake