Editor:
I read with amusement your June 20, article, Former chair of Metro Vancouver’s trip expenses were more than his colleagues’
Like countless others in Delta, I recently received my 2024 Property Tax Notice, complete with a glossy flyer from the Mayor’s Office. It outlines this year’s average tax increase for residential property and that the tax will increase by 7.75 per cent. In addition, on the back page, there is a statement that reads: achieving results: I’m proud of Delta’s continued economic resilience. Delta remains a fiscally responsible city, putting its residents and businesses first.
Your article by Graeme Wood says that Metro Vancouver has a board expense policy which has six general provisions, including that: “Travellers are expected to minimize expenses and travel time such as overnight stays wherever possible based upon the particular circumstances of their travel.”
The policy also states: “The lowest available fares applicable or appropriate to particular itineraries shall be sought and bookings shall be made as far in advance as possible.”
New Westminster Coun. Daniel Fontaine said it appears to him that Mayor George Harvie did not follow the “spirit” of the policies.
It would also appear that Harvie doesn’t follow his own words of wisdom with regards to his statement of economic resilience and remaining fiscally responsible. Property tax increases at twice the inflation rate and demonstrates his total lack of fiscal responsibility when travelling at the taxpayers’ expense.
Chris Dowsett
