Dear Editor
There comes a time when you just have to say what's on your mind, especially when you are not the only one thinking it. Put plainly, I'm having difficulties wrapping my mind around the City of North Battleford's tax increases.
I know someone out there has an "excuse" for all of them. but when our tax hikes are worthy of Saskatoon news slots I know my opinion has some validity. When our city makes an announcement such as these proposed tax increases, I can't help but immediately think of the multiplex and the recent land donation for a heritage park. I know I'm not alone in disagreeing, on so many levels, with the location and design of the multiplex. (Yes, I filled out my survey and no, I don't believe the general population were heard on paper, or in person.) Many months of begging (yes, I mean begging) for donations was embarrassing and angered many of us not in support of such a monstrous project. Now, we're hearing about engineering and design issues. What a travesty that we are all having to pay for, like it or not.
The land donation for a heritage park quickly follows, while we are still being bombarded by multiplex fundraising. To voice the opinions of so many people "enough already!"
We are a city with so much potential if we pace ourselves and think ahead about the bigger picture. When do we listen to the people on the street, the ones living here to safely raise children and still be able to own a house? This is a community renowned for affordable, established neighbourhoods. This is why some many families come here or come back here after being away.
Yes, we needed some improvements and yes we need to support the many organizations that function in our area. We just need to do it in a manageable way.
In my heart, and those of many of the city residents I chat with during my days, we have gone overboard. Repeatedly. I resent being stuck with the bill for someone else's extravagance. You can tell me the tax increases are for water and sewer and based on property values, but that will not make me believe it.
Pushing forward sometimes prevents progress in a positive direction and loses the support and confidence of the people who are meant to benefit from the decisions being made. Sometimes the right people aren't truly listening to what's being said by the people they are supposed to be working for. (Dare I mention the issue with the SpesMed Clinic? That was a close one!)
I strongly feel that the City of North Battleford is biting the hand that feeds it.
Kim Wappel
North Battleford
