We have all heard the expression “money is tight.”
On a daily basis I hear from taxpayers who have made it clear that they can barely afford current taxation levels taxes let alone any increases.
It is a similar message I heard throughout the campaign opposing the HST.
Yet there are also calls for increased spending and complaints of “underfunding” in many areas of government service delivery, be it in healthcare, community living, the court system and demands from the BCTF or elsewhere.
At the same time, in recent weeks government has announced funding increases in many significant areas, most recently increased gaming grants to our largely volunteer driven non profit community.
We must also recognize that there is strong competition in many areas for a greater share of scarce taxpayer dollars.
Ultimately increased funding in one area often means that funding increases will be unavailable in another. One area where funding has been recently increased is to create a new program that will help low-income seniors and people with disabilities pay for safety accessibility modifications that can help enhance independent living. Permanent modifications such ashandrails, ramps for ease of access, bathtub grab bars and seats are just a few examples of safety enhancements that are covered under this program. We know that helping people remain independent as long as possible is important and this program will help to achieve that important goal. The funding is provided through a forgivable loan provided certain conditions are met throughout the term. For further information please visit www.bchousing.org/HAFI
Finally this week a special recognition for the players, fans and all members of the Penticton Vees Hockey Club.
By this time next week the Vees may well have either tied or broken the 23 year old BCHL record for most consecutive wins. Regardless if the record stands or falls this group of kids is playing some truly spectacular hockey and is building on a proud legacy in this region that hockey fans can share in.
Bill Barisoff is MLA for Penticton.
