Dear Friends,
As the Christmas lights come down, 2020 is now upon us.
While many are enjoying the wintry outdoor recreation or renewed gym passes to take that holiday turkey to task, I fully realize that others are facing difficult decisions to continue to keep the lights on.
Last month, Council passed a budget that effectively translates to an increase of 7.5% on the average residential tax bill. Strip malls and neighbourhood shopping malls are facing increases of 14-18%. While I did not side with the majority of Council on this, I assure you that I will make the most of it and look to all opportunities to cut costs and improve efficiencies at City Hall.
This is the most entrepreneurial city in Canada. I am so proud of Calgarians, who have weathered financial and political storms over the last several years and yet here we stand. You continue to surpass my expectations in your resiliency, adaptability and innovation.
My efforts to help make Calgary more prosperous, livable and safe are made possible by the will of its citizens. Please get in touch with me ahead of March, when Council will finalize the tax rate, to share your thoughts and concerns.
Please do not hesitate to reach out to me if you feel there is something we can help you with or an idea you would care to share with us.
Our first town hall of the year will be at the Kingsland Community Centre on Jan. 22 from 7-8:30 p.m. This community conversation will be themed on Crime Prevention and Safety and I hope to see you there.
Wishing you all the best this year.
Respectfully,
Jeromy Farkas
(Palliser resident and Ward 11 Councillor for the City of Calgary)
