Waste_Levy

Feature Article September 18

Feature Article September 18, 2002

LAND O' LAKES NewsWeb Home

NF Waste levy increase for Bon Echo standsby Will Cybulski Cloyne Waste management discussion took up a considerable portion of Councils meeting on September 9, and one of the areas addressed was the raised tipping fee that has been applied to garbage from Bon Echo Provincial Park. Earlier this year, that levy was increased 50%, from $4,000 to $6,000.

Council was in receipt of correspondence asking that the boost in fees be reconsidered, based on a statistical review of the positive contributions the park makes to the community, as well as the increase being applied with alleged short notice. While there was acknowledgement of the positive financial spin-off from the park to the area, the majority of Council stuck to their guns in holding the increase.

Councillor Dave Smith stated that, This was not a 10-second decision. There was considerable discussion by the waste management committee. If were not doing our job, then speak up! to which Councillor Elaine Churchill expressed agreement.

Councillor Bud Clayton reminded everyone that Addington Highlands is on a bag tag system, while Councillor Dick Hook added that with the amount that is coming down on our plates, weve got to pick up some place.

Councillor Gleva Lemke thought that the increase was fair. They should approach Council earlier, while budgets are under consideration.

The waste management committee do a good job on their budget, said Mayor Johnston, and we do have to address concerns that the government has raised.

At the opposing end, Councillor Ed Buck made his feelings known by claiming that without the park, lots of people wouldnt be in business. It generates a good deal of local income, and they do loan equipment to the Township at no cost. A side comment that the Park could raise campsite fees by a dollar brought a chorus of assent from the audience. At the end of discussions, it was decided that a letter would be sent from the municipality stating that the tipping fee increase would stand.