Council not prepared to raise taxes or cut services

“… The only way to increase revenues is to increase taxes and other fees to our residents, and to decrease expenditures means we have to reduce town services and programs,” Laurie stated.

“We are simply not prepared to do either of those options.”

During the lockout essential services will still be maintained by the town, including water testing, garbage collection and ice/snow control. Recycling collection will be suspended.

The town hall will be open for essential services.

All recreational facilities are closed effective Sunday, Oct. 22. This includes Paradise Double Ice Complex, Paradise Youth and Community Centre, St. Thomas Community Centre, Dianne Whalen Memorial Soccer Complex, Milton Road Softball Complex and Peter Barry Duff Memorial Park.

After-school programs, fitness programs and other recreational programs are suspended.

Town council meetings will move to a monthly schedule.

“We recognize the inconvenience this lockout is bringing to our residents, but we feel we have no choice but to take this step in order to bring about a resolution to the bargaining process,” Laurie stated. “The town is willing to return to negotiations at any time, as long as the bargaining unit is interested in sincere and meaningful discussions.”

Updates on the impact of the lockout on services in the Town of Paradise are available online at paradise.ca/jobaction.