Dear editor,
We just received our 2018 property taxes.
We have fewer discretionary dollars due to various cost increases (e.g. property taxes).
Our 2017 income rose 4.2 per cent while our income taxes rose 23.7 per cent. Our net 2018 property taxes were a whopping 12.5 per cent higher than 2017.
At this rate in six years our taxes will double. Can we pay it? Yes, but the things we saved and sacrificed for so we could enjoy in retirement (e.g. theatre, Canucks/BC Lions games, concerts, vacation, etc.) are falling off the table.
How are we to keep up?
The City’s incessant thirst for money means taxes and fees must increase to keep up with their spending. This is not sustainable.
Is anyone recognizing this? Our municipal government needs to conduct their affairs much as we who are trying to get through life within our means: no wonder there is such a debt load by Canadians. People are maxing out their credit cards, borrowing from their home equity just to meet their financial obligations. Governments need to critically look at how they conduct their financial affairs. We need responsible government.
I see a couple members of our city council trying to establish responsible spending. Should this spending by our government continue, we will need to explore alternatives to living in our retirement home, truly a sad [reality]. This financial snowball has continued its downhill trajectory for years and it is gathering speed.
What will it take to get your attention… a Proposition 13?
I urge taxpayers to speak up and vote for those who are sensitive to the financial strain and act accordingly.
Larry Wenezenki
Courtenay