The alternative approval process for the CRD’s bylaw to authorize the borrowing of $85 million for the purpose of land assembly, housing and land banking service leaves something to be desired.
This option that allows the local government to borrow money has advantages, but it’s not perfect.
Taxpayers are well aware of the consequences of taking on too much debt, particularly after interest rates have skyrocketed over the last several years. There must be careful consideration and broad consensus on borrowing $85 million.
It’s incumbent on local politicians to do everything they can to get out the vote. It must be made simple for residents to express their views if they choose and vote against the bylaw.
Taxpayers are out of luck if they didn’t hear about this vote when it was first announced Jan. 3. Despite the initial media coverage, residents may or may not have heard about the opportunity to vote against the loan or the deadline of Feb. 5.
Taxpayers need to find the form and background material on the CRD website. It could be posted more prominently along with the deadline on the homepage.
Taxpayers these days are not likely to try and find a pen, an envelope, and stamp, then trundle off to a mailbox to send in their response. Nor are they likely to drop the vote off in person.
Taxpayers then have fun with a PDF form that’s not ‘fillable,’ unnecessary since it’s readily accessible technology. So, you must download the form, fill in the blanks, sign it, and return it via email only after you scan it. Not everyone has a scanner or access to one, and knows how to do it. Why isn’t faxing an option?
Residents are eager to make a difference and become involved in local government, but it must be made less cumbersome and easier for them to participate in the process.
Running into difficulties makes electoral voters suspicious of the process.
Stan Bartlett, vice-chair
Grumpy Taxpayer$ of Greater Victoria
