It’s strike one for Plante on budget

Re: “Tax hike does not break any promises: Plante” (Montreal Gazette, Jan. 11) Contrary to her denials, Valérie Plante did not keep her promise to limit property tax hikes to the rate of inflation.

The technicality she used to defend her position — a common refrain among politicians — is an insult to the intelligence of the voters.

It confirms the concerns of those of us who voted for her because, among other reasons, we felt the apparent reckless spending of former mayor Denis Coderre would come home to roost — and it has. However, I would prefer that the new mayor be more straightforward about the dilemma she faces. After all, we have almost four more years to judge her administration.

That said, I would love for Plante to break another promise — the plan to ban calèche rides in Old Montreal, which smacks of political correctness.

Such a ban — putting owners, drivers and horses out of work — is unnecessary.

It is easy to tell if horses are distressed, and not costly to make sure the few remaining ones are well-treated and do not work in extreme conditions.

But for now, it is strike one. Ken Frankel, N.D.G.