Show me the money

By RHONDA BEERS
Where is all the property tax money?

The 2007-2008 capital budget states that HRM will allocate six per cent or $12.07 million to be spent on community facilities. In the past, it was 5.2 per cent to be used for recreation and libraries.

The 2006 census data show the western region as being the fastest growing area in HRM. Our population has ballooned from 120,000 to more than 180,000. We are paying some of the highest property taxes in HRM.

Why, then, has there not been a new recreation facility, pool or rink in this area in over 30 years? The city owes this community the best to service the health and fitness needs of our children, seniors and adults. We have more than shared our tax dollars with other areas of the municipality.

Due to population growth, a 25-metre pool will not accommodate the western region of HRM. A 50-metre pool has more potential and our tax dollars will be better spent.

Let’s stop this insult! Think for a moment about how much tax revenue generated in our communities is being used outside of where you live. There have been millions and millions of tax dollars collected by HRM over these past 30 years earmarked for a new recreation facility that will meet the needs of the population in our region. So the question is: Where is the money? Most of all, show me the money!