Yesterday, after reading the latest report on the above subject in the Guelph Tribune and you being the only Councilor of 3 contacted who appeared interested and concerned last June, I believe the local and worldwide financial situation facing taxpayers some 6 months later, is even more concerning and bleak for at least, late into 2009.
One reads or hears for example, Linamar Corp. cancelling wage increases and cutting expenses for 2009, hiring freezes, more employee layoffs, city outside workers disenchanted with previous wage adjustments when compared to Police and Fire department employees, RIFF portfolio values severely declining thus affecting pension payments for 2009, proposed utility cost and educational increases, just to mention a few. Sure, a continuing reduction of oil prices will help.
What the present and short-term financial situation triggers I believe, are some really tough and no doubt un-popular decisions where tax increases will be held to a minimum and only critical projects undertaken.
My thoughts. RA