City budget unaffordable
Tax-and-spend budget rejected The city’s current tax-and-spend 2023 budget proposal of almost seven percent demonstrates a stunning lack of fiscal discipline and situational awareness, says municipal watchdog Grumpy Taxpayer$. After…
Racking up bigger surpluses
For most people a rainy day account means a few hundred or thousand dollars tucked away in savings for occasional or unexpected expenses such as car repairs, a new roof…
Will council consider affordability?
EDITOR NOTES: On Feb. 6, Metchosin council will table a draft budget with a 11.7 per cent tax increase. Unless city council sharpens their pencils, the poorest amongst us in…
Double-check for surcharges
Transparency often lacking around surprising surcharges Popular Hermann’s Jazz Club hits the right notes when the first words on their website prominently declare ‘Our prices include all tax and fees.’…
Policing changes transforming the region
Various policy and financial modifications Councils across the region are facing stiff headwinds this spring when they sit down to debate police budgets. In turn, depending on where they live,…
Reality checks needed
What is going on at the City of Victoria? That’s the question most Victoria taxpayers are asking after learning of a proposed 8.99 per cent property tax increase in 2023.…
‘Before you leave the house’
Most city park toilets substandard requiring $13-$14-million in upgrades, renovations Residents are wondering why most city washrooms are substandard and in shambles and now need $13-14 million in upgrades and…
End doesn’t justify means
Langford fast-tracks a bylaw taking 72 hours or less It’s evident that good governance of a city includes letting the taxpayer weigh-in thoroughly on bylaws which impact their lives. The…
VicPD snags Candy Cane Award
Colwood and Saanich also recognized Drum roll, please! The civic watchdog Grumpy Taxpayer$ of Greater Victoria has awarded VicPD top honours in its 7th Annual Candy Cane Awards for providing…