City Wants Input On New Taxes

How much money have we spent over the past four years on the Toronto Talk sessions and did they listen to anyone but the left wing social in-activists, unions and others who feed at the trough? I think this is just a waste of time and as usual Comrade Miller and the Politboro will do what they want not what should be done. Reduce waste at city hall, reduce staff, reduce grants, contract out services, etc. Time for lean and mean.

City Wants Your Input On New Taxes
Monday May 7, 2007

Road tolls. Taxes on alcohol. Levies on movie and Leaf tickets. Extra funds to buy some cigarettes. Welcome to the Toronto of the not-so-distant future, where if it's fun or necessary, the politicians will have their palms out waiting to collect money from you. By now you know about the City of Toronto Act, which gives councillors the chance to make up for lost revenue by imposing additional taxes.

The powers-that-be already know you won't want to pay more for the privilege of doing what you've long been able to do for free. But they also claim the province hasn't lived up to its own obligations and the city faces potential bankruptcy unless there are new revenue streams.

At least you'll get a chance to tell those in charge what you think - and you won't have to wait until the next election. The city is holding four forums over the next few weeks to allow you to have your say. Budget Chief Shelley Carroll expects to get an earful. "This is simply a matter of looking at all of the powers we've been given," she explains. "We've been chastised by some government members for dragging our feet on it. But we do need to consult with the citizen. What impact will it have? Will that stop you going to the theatre? We need to hear from the theatre industry."

Bar owners have already let it be known another alcohol tax will be enough to drive their patrons to drink - though they won't be able to afford the glasses or the tolls to reach the establishments. "Any new taxes threaten the viability of Toronto's bar and restaurant industry," warns Stephanie Jones of the Canadian Restaurant and Foodservices Association in a statement. "Toronto should be encouraging a vibrant, growing hospitality industry. Instead the city is placing its fiscal woes squarely on the backs of these small businesses."

Here's where and when you can get your two cents in. You're allowed to email your comments, but to speak your mind at one of the four forums, you must register in advance before heading towards the mic.