Proposed property taxes already affecting jobs, projects
As a building contractor in the East Kootenay, we have already seen the impact of proposed new NDP property taxes. Most of the vacation properties in places such as Fernie, Kimberly, Cranbrook, Fairmont, Invermere, Radium, Golden and Revelstoke are owned or invested in by Alberta residents.
We have seen deals collapse, projects put on hold and investors pull out due to uncertainty over property taxation.
The NDP has managed to slow or stop growth in these communities, as well as in many others in B.C.
What kind of tax base comes out of zeroper-cent growth?
I am hopeful this tax proposal will be rescinded and my employees and I will have a chance to pursue our livelihoods.
— Kris Newman, Invermere
PM doesn’t care about B.C.
In avoiding the proposed U.S. duties on steel and aluminum, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said it was the result of “a true Team Canada effort.” He then went to the heart of aluminum country, Quebec, and said, “We had your backs.”
Contrast that to the softwood lumber dispute, where Trudeau does not seem to be mounting a “Team Canada effort.” B.C. suffers the most in that case. Then there is the Trans Mountain pipeline, which Trudeau says will be built, despite significant opposition in B.C.
Contrast that with the Energy East pipeline, a project more in the national interest because it would displace foreign oil with domestic and result in more refined product. Trudeau went out of his way to kill this project in part because of fierce opposition in Quebec.
Trudeau’s apple did not fall far from his father’s tree in that he will act on issues that Quebec deems important while once again giving B.C. the finger.
— Al Williams, Richmond
World Cup view disappoints
Mike Smyth’s column Thursday about the provincial government’s World Cup decision is an example of how tone deaf he and the NDP are.
Do these people not have kids who play sports and are inspired by them?
B.C. Place has just three events this June, likely the same month the World Cup would be played. FIFA’s request to reserve the month is not outrageous, nor is asking for security, parking and the installation of grass.
To think that these factors are reasons to rob a generation of the experience and inspiration of the World Cup is disappointing. That doesn’t consider the economic boom that would have accompanied the event. — Sandy Sumra, Vancouver
Middle class hit again
“Mobility pricing” is a shiny, friendly term from consultants for the Metro Vancouver Mayors’ Council because “driver’s tax” is less palatable.
The council’s online questionnaire is skewed to get the responses they want, such as asking if the gas tax should be eliminated.
The gas tax is shared by all drivers.
If it is replaced by mobility pricing, the burden would shift to the working middle class, who commute greater distances at peak times.
Wealthier residents who live closer would be taxed considerably less.
Vancouver’s Vision council and Mayor Gregor Robertson are creating more congestion by taking out the viaduct and reducing road capacity with bike lanes. Now they want commuters to pay for the increased congestion?
Make sure your voice is heard on the website, It’s Time.
I also urge commuters to contact their councillors and MLAs to ensure the funding model is actually fair.
Garrick Jay, Pitt Meadows