Kelowna doesn’t need a carbon tax

Dear Editor: I read with disgust that Kelowna City Hall is investigating the introduction of a gas tax and other taxes to address the issue of carbon emissions and the need to support public transportation (Courier, Nov. 27).

I do support the need to reduce our carbon footprint, but we must do that in a way that does not impact our seniors and low-income families. Our pockets are only so deep.

My wife and I left the Lower Mainland two years ago because we were being taxed to death: carbon tax on our gas, home heating and electricity; bridge tolls (now potentially a mileage tax); high property tax; daily parking at $30 a day and more.

These increased taxes had little to no impact on traffic congestion nor did it result in more public transportation in the areas that most needed it; except along the SkyTrain routes. Anyone that did not have access to the SkyTrain or the limited number of BC Transit bus routes was forced to drive. Without any other option but to drive, it cost our family thousands of dollars a year in direct and indirect taxes.

Kelowna needs to find a better way to address our carbon footprint, just don’t tax us to death. Think about all of those seniors and others that need to drive to get to work, go to the doctor, attend school, and do not have access to existing public transportation. Increase transportation options not our taxes. Roger Powley

Kelowna