Council must exercise some fiscal restraint
Advertisement
Read this article for free:
or
Already have an account? Log in here »
We need your support!
Local journalism needs your support!
As we navigate through unprecedented times, our journalists are working harder than ever to bring you the latest local updates to keep you safe and informed.
Now, more than ever, we need your support.
Starting at $15.99 plus taxes every four weeks you can access your Brandon Sun online and full access to all content as it appears on our website.
Subscribe Nowor call circulation directly at (204) 727-0527.
Your pledge helps to ensure we provide the news that matters most to your community!
To continue reading, please subscribe:
Add Brandon Sun access to your Free Press subscription for only an additional
$1 for the first 4 weeks*
*Your next subscription payment will increase by $1.00 and you will be charged $20.00 plus GST for four weeks. After four weeks, your payment will increase to $24.00 plus GST every four weeks.
Read unlimited articles for free today:
or
Already have an account? Log in here »
I am writing regarding the proposal for the City of Brandon to borrow $6,061,000 to construct an outdoor aquatic facility.
At a time when the city is already facing financial challenges, it is difficult to justify adding millions more in public debt.
The proposed annual repayment of approximately $848,000 over 10 years represents a significant ongoing obligation that will ultimately be borne by local taxpayers.
Brandon is currently dealing with budget pressures and existing service demands.
Moving forward with large discretionary projects while operating with a deficit risks placing an even greater burden on residents.
City priorities should focus first on controlling spending, maintaining essential infrastructure, and reducing the financial shortfall before undertaking new capital projects.
While recreational facilities are appreciated by many citizens, the long-term cost must be carefully weighed against other urgent community needs.
An outdoor aquatic facility would also have limited seasonal use in Manitoba, reducing the return on such a substantial investment.
I urge city council to exercise fiscal restraint and consider whether this is the right time to increase public debt.
DAVE PATTERSON
Brandon