I think the residents of Parksville made an error by not electing Paul Reitsma to Parksville city council. Years ago he made a mistake which cost him his political career. I believe now is the time to forgive his mistakes, as he is one of the few standing up to the mayor and councillors for the benefit of Parksville residents.
At a recent budget meeting he questioned council on why Parksville management staff gets 261 accumulated sick days, while union members get 60 days. To my knowledge, other municipalities do not get these cushy rewards — a payout on retirement of thousands of dollars.
He also mentioned the fact there are sometimes more management staff at a council meeting than council members and asked if they got paid or time off. The answer was they get time off.
Where else can you get a couple of weeks off for attending meetings — 12 stat holidays a year, 16 sick days and holidays ranging from four-six weeks a year. Pretty sweet benefits at taxpayers expense. Much more than is needed.
He also questioned council about how foolish they were to give the curling club a $3,000 grant so they could pay their $3,000 taxes in which the city only received $1,500 back, the other $1,500 goes to different jurisdictions.
I believe it is time for the residents of Parksville to take an active interest in what goes on at city hall. We seem to be throwing our tax dollars away with no real input as to how our money is being spent.
Gary CurtainParksville