In response to Alan Murdock’s Commentary of July 24, 2010.
Murdock stated that the St. Albert Taxpayers Association is fear mongering with such crazy notions as allowing local taxpayers (this means you) the ability to pay their bills on time and maybe even eat once in a while. He seems to believe that we are all well off and rolling in money when the real situation for most families in our little community is dire at the very least. The majority of us living in St. Albert are barely able to afford our property taxes, which seemingly are unstoppable in their upward trajectory, not to mention the unreasonable utility rates we are all slave to.
Perhaps Murdock should consider that most people are not financially secure in these difficult times. Unemployment is at an all time high while prices continue to rise on all staple goods. The only successful and thriving organization in our city is the food bank (of which I am a strong supporter). There are also destitute, homeless people living in our park spaces. Not everyone is a doctor or lawyer with a large income. Most families are more concerned with daily living and trying to pay down a mortgage.
Please don't think that I am anti-art. Quite the contrary as one of my sons is an artist and has been for over 30 years. Also my granddaughter is currently preparing to attend college for fine arts. It is my belief that in these insecure times, public funds should be spent on more important issues. After all, how can we consider ourselves a real community if we turn our collective backs on our own neighbours when they require compassion the most? We need to re-examine our policies when tax revenue is being spent on what appears to be non-essential projects spearheaded by special interest groups. Taxes are not meant to be used as city council's petty cash.
Frances Badrock, St. Albert
