It’s that time of year again, when local politicians travel to the UBCM for the annual convention.
Over the many years I attended the UBCM, I would be astounded at the lack of research and preparation given to the resolutions which would be coming to the floor for debate.
There are many resolutions which pertain to funding required from either the province, federal government or both.
I question why we never seem to give much thought to the cost. There is only one taxpayer regardless of which level of government provides the service.
Again, local government is bringing forward a resolution asking for one per cent of either the HST or PST on a per capita basis.
Where will the province find additional monies to fund this request?
Perhaps the debate should be how we maintain our quality of life and control taxes at the same time.
I heard Councillor Thapar on the radio make reference to log exports; he felt he needs to be at the convention to vote on this issue.
The question is, has he contacted anyone for information as to the amount of logs exported, where they come from and why they are exported?? Has anyone asked?
Another resolution is to end the MSP premium for seniors – as a senior, sure that makes sense, but then to ask the province to bear any cost associated with this, well now who pays?
Is there public consultation on resolutions or are decisions made only by local governments. I for one don’t think we should be charged a fee on plastic bags – unless of course I can return the same and receive my deposit back.
Certainly I wasn’t consulted about Oil Tanker Traffic – yet there is a resolution that wants the province to implement legislative and administrative means to stop expansion of oil tanker traffic.
At the same time local government is asking for revenue sharing from resources.
How many times have we heard politicians say we need jobs for our young people, yet go out of our way to prevent resource development. Political statements are made against mine development, etc.
Those jobs are the bread and butter of our quality of life. Perhaps being a playground for the rich and the environmentalists is more important.
Then should we be asking how we pay, or just continue to tax and spend?
Decisions made at convention should be made in the best interests of everyone, not furthering political careers.
Mary Glassford is a long-term Quesnel resident, former Cariboo Regional District director and city councillor and president of the Post Secondary Education Council.