Editor: Chatham-Kent council and administration have certainly brought our communities together in a short period of time. After announcing the last tax increase, they have brought together Ridgetown, Wheatley, Tilbury, Wallaceburg, Blenheim and area, Highgate, Orford, Bothwell and Zone.
What is unfortunate is that the reason for all of these communities coming together is their desire to LEAVE Chatham-Kent. This should be a huge red flag for the mayor and council, as well as administration. We are tired of the way this municipality is being run and we are speaking out.
Then there’s the CAO (Chief Administrative Officer) replacement. In not many positions does the person leaving the position do the hiring for their replacement. And how many people are hired four years before they take the position to learn it – especially when they are suggesting that the CAO replacement will come from within? Shouldn’t that person already know the workings of the municipality?
How stupid do you think your constituents are? CAO Michael Duben was hired externally and didn’t take four years to learn the position.
Now let’s talk about council choosing how many representatives are required to sit on council. Their answer is a little biased. There are too many opinions around the table, and that is getting nothing accomplished but adding to the taxpayers’ bill. Perhaps this should be something voted on from outside of the council chambers. Let the public vote.
Having council decide is like asking a child if they want seven friends at their party or 12. Of course they are going to say 12.
When you hire a consultant, and the consultant recommends something, then perhaps you shouldn’t fluff their recommendation off as a “suggestion”. They are professionals, they know what they are talking about. Perhaps you should listen to them.
And last, but not least, when you are raising our taxes (every year beyond our ability to pay), and comparing us to other communities like Sudbury, Brantford, etc., remember that they have industry and companies who help pay for the increase.
The largest employer in Chatham-Kent is the Municipality of Chatham-Kent. Other than the municipality, C-K is becoming a retirement community and retirees don’t have the same funds as industrial companies to pay taxes.
Bring industry to Chatham-Kent, bring jobs to Chatham-Kent and bring tax relief to the citizens who elected you to do the job of representing us in our best interest.
Karen Pynenbrouck
Chatham
