Over the summer I have had a few tirades posted on this page that note various curious and strange decisions or directions by those in the political arena, now it is time to propose a few solutions.
The revenue issue: if a village or town seems to have surplus revenue (read tax dollars), then we are being over taxed. Return the money and cut the mill rates. As well, the community charter states that a municipality must have a zero balance at years end. Taxpayers do not see the sense or validity in spending the “surplus” on useless projects.
Certain capital projects are necessary if growth is projected, and also there is a need for contingency funds for maintenance and repair, but let’s look at the big picture. If the economy is slow, slow down your spending. Small-time government is not in the business of stimulating the economy. And remember, it is not a business, it’s governance, which is leadership and fiscal responsibility. The mayor and councillors are the facilitators with staff being the resource.
To the issue of a fire hall and the bus barn, as there appears to be a concern about earthquakes. I propose that the old bus building be utilized to store some of the fire apparatus. This will get us a use and provide an option to having all the eggs in one basket. In an earthquake not all the buildings will fall down and the roads and streets might be impassable in front of a single location. I would also suggest a small fire apparatus storage building at the proposed fire hall site at the reservoir on Rupert Road. These two facilities would not be staffed. Only used in an emergency, or as the closest responder.
Allan Clark
Qualicum Beach