On January 23, City of Powell River Council passed the third reading of the council remuneration bylaw [“City of Powell River Council passes remuneration bylaw reading,” January 24]. They did this despite requests from both Townsite Ratepayers Society and Westview Ratepayers Society to hold off until the 2025 financial plan is finalized and we have some idea about the property tax increases for this year.
The argument from several councillors is that the bylaw should be passed because it does not have any cost effect until 2026 and there is time to reconsider it if people think that it is necessary. Arguing that it can be reconsidered in the future makes little sense as it is very unlikely that the council that adopts this policy will agree to reopen it for discussion.
The residents of Powell River need to know that their elected council is taking every prudent action possible to address the financial challenges of the city. I would encourage council to take the time to publicly answer all of the concerns that have been raised before the policy is approved. The concerns are serious and need to be addressed.
Addressing the concerns before making a final decision would inspire more confidence in their leadership.
Rick Craig, president, Westview Ratepayers Society
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