By Pam Wright
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
A local councillor attempted to steer council outside its area of expertise recently.
South Kent Coun. Ryan Doyle wanted to see council send a letter to Prime Minister Mark Carney objecting to carbon tax increases Carney has said he will eliminate.
Doyle could only garner the support of four other councillors.
He failed in his bid to side with Sarnia council speaking out against a now-negated increase in the federal carbon tax.
At the March 17 meeting, a motion by Doyle to forward a letter protesting the increase that had been slated for April 1, failed in a five to 12 vote.
Doyle was strong in condemning the effects the tax could bring.
“Currently, especially with everything going on right now, we can’t afford to be taking money out of our constituents’ pockets, so this is one more way to keep money in their pockets,” Doyle said. “I think it’s a good idea.”
But the majority didn’t see it that way.
“We have had a recent announcement from the federal government on carbon tax, and there’s likely an election on the way, so I don’t know if our role is to step into the fray on this type of issue,” Chatham Coun. Brock McGregor said.
The carbon tax has been a highly politicized issue between the Conservatives and the Liberals in Ottawa. However, one of the first acts of new Prime Minister Mark Carney was to remove the carbon tax.
In her comments, North Kent Coun. Rhonda Jubenville, reminded council the axing of the tax is not a done deal.
“I just want to confirm that there is information out in the public that our prime minister has stepped back or paused the carbon tax, but it hasn’t passed through legislation,” Jubenville explained. “I just want to confirm that fact before we vote.”
Those voting in favour of sending the letter include Doyle, Jubenville, Anthony Ceccacci, Lauren Anderson and Michael Bondy.
