return to main page about me page
TAXES - Myths & Facts
Fact: I've been one of the strongest advocates against tax increases and maintaining a zero tax increase for the last 3 years, although with the continued decrease of the OMPF Grant (Ontario Municipal Partnership Fund) we need to make up the deficit through cost cutting measures, grants/funding, and lastly reasonable tax increases
Myth: When MPAC increases the total assessment and the township receives more money in taxes because we haven't reduced the tax rate, it isn't considered a tax increase.
oPP vs espanola police - Myths & Facts
Fact: With taxpayers being either for or against, council has the duty to investigate all options of price and services that are provided with the OPP and Espanola Police.
Recent headlines regarding the proposed OPP costing http://www.northumberlandtoday.com/2014/08/17/impact-of-opp-billing-model-unknown
fIRE department - Myths & Facts
Myth: Purchasing the new tanker will deplete all the reserves and increase taxes in future years.
Fact: We purchased the new tanker in 2014 with monies coming from the 2014 Budget along with Municipal Reserves. This happened without sacrificing any planned projects or any long term loss of any reserves.
Fact: The new tanker will provide lower a lower ISO rating for our township and help prevent insurance increases for our constituents.
Myth: The Fire Department wanted a shiny toy.
Fact: It was the top priority as per a third party Asset Management legislated by the Province of all the town's equipment, infrastructure, and buildings