I would like to ask a question of the North Cowichan councillors who seem determined to raise our property taxes. I specifically mean Manhas, Findlay and Caljouw. Why are you doing this to us?
There’s no excuse for continuing to believe the old saw that “more development means lower taxes”. Has this ever proven true anywhere? Indeed, the cities with the most development pay higher taxes than anyone! Look at fast growing Surrey, for instance — property taxes have increased by double-digit percentages every year, year after year after year. And the same is true for every rapidly-growing municipality, bar none. Why do you want that for us?
Yes, we need to grow. But can’t we do it without placing such a heavy burden on property owners? More development means wider roads, wider sewer and water pipes, more garbage trucks ($500,000 apiece), more building inspectors, etc., etc., etc. Costing us millions!
We need development but let’s use some wisdom. Let’s densify in designated areas close to existing infrastructure, as suggested in the community-backed OCP. That would save us money! Why, do you keep voting against that?
And then you continually vote against needed infrastructure maintenance and improvements. Are you waiting for something to fail? That will cost us many times more than it would have if maintained responsibly. Is that how you maintain your own homes? Do you neglect your roofs "to save money”? Of course not! So why are you doing that to us?
I believe we can grow within our means with proper planning. We have excellent planners who know their business. They are expensive but well worth their cost, as good planning saves money. But you keep ignoring them! More money wasted! Again, why?
Stop! And stop pretending that you are trying to save us money when you are working so doggedly to do the opposite!
Cynthia Montgomery
Maple Bay
