Rich Peers
City/Township Council · Kitchener Ward 5
Back to candidatesBudget & Taxes
Do you think the Region's or municipality's budget process should be more transparent and accessible to residents?single choice
It should be more transparent and accessible
Municipal and regional costs have generally risen faster than revenues restricted by property tax rules and limited local revenue tools. How would you balance tax increases against maintaining service levels and long-term financial sustainability?select up to 3 per part
A. Revenue approaches
- Prioritize not increasing taxes and service fees
D. Growth & cost recovery
- Ensure new development pays a greater share of long-term infrastructure costs
B. Service levels
- Adjust service delivery models to reduce costs without reducing access
C. Capital & infrastructure
- Require lifecycle cost analysis before approving any new infrastructure
Please describe one concrete example of a trade-off you would support (or oppose) when costs rise faster than revenues.candidate's own words
I would oppose continuing with discretionary projects simply because they were previously planned if the financial circumstances have changed. Sometimes responsible leadership means saying “not yet” so we can protect core services and avoid putting unnecessary pressure on taxpayers.
If you chose "It should be more transparent and accessible", please describe how.candidate's own words
Residents should be included through conversations and regular meetings with councillors.