NEWS AND EVENTS
| Letter by former long-time Beaconsfield Mayor and current BCA member Mr. Edwin Briggs on the Beaconsfield Library Project The recent report of the proposal by the Beaconsfield Council, to replace the existing library and to erect a new library building, in order to create additional office space, is certainly open to very serious question. Apparently, so it has been implied, there is a need for additional area for the City administration! For what purpose, for whom, and what is the real justification and cost benefit? The population of Beaconsfield has remained basically static for the past 25 plus years, in fact it has decreased by about 5%. The increase in kilometres of public roads during this period is a minimum. A relatively insignificant number of new homes have been added during this time, as the City is virtually fully developed. Certain essential services previously administered by the City are now the purview of the Agglomeration Committee, who recently added fire protection to the list. So why the need for additional administrative space? The statement that "the project is essentially free" is astounding. The Council apparently hopes to acquire funding for $4 plus million, either by Government Grants and/or Corporate funds. Nothing is 'Free'. Government funds are Public moneys (you & me) - there is no such thing as 'Free Money'. With so many current serious public funding problems, principally for overpasses, highways & road, bridges, hospitals and medical services, etc., it is inconceivable that the Government or other body, would consider this kind of money for a non-essential project to embellish existing facilities or financing unneeded office expansion when there are other more practical alternatives. We hope our Public is not that naïve. Realistically, an estimated annual cost to finance this $4 million project over a period of, say 20 years at 5%, would not only amount to approximately $300,000 but increase our public debt. Beaconsfield, by choice, is predominantly a residential community, without industrial support, and with only a modest commercial base. As a consequence with the present comparatively high residential taxes, our tax rates are very sensitive to any increase in Municipal spending, and thus almost 100% an additional residential burden. Could and should our money be better administered and utilized? Respectfully, Edwin M. Briggs, FCA |
BEACONSFIELD BUDGET 2008
BEACONSFIELD LEGER MARKETING SURVEY QUESTIONS (2007)
BILL 22
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OPEN LETTER TO COUNCIL (2007)
YACHT CLUBS (2007)
HERITAGE HOMES BYLAW (2007)
MEET THE CANDIDATES NIGHT (2007)
PROPOSED MAYOR AND COUNCIL SALARY INCREASE (2007)
2007 BEACONSFIELD BUDGET CONSULTATION
Gary Wells presents BCA's proposal to council
Watch on CFCF (CTV) Montreal
Listen on the radio (CJAD 800 & other)
| Documents: | Budget 2007 - Residents and Associations presentations |
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