Increases are inevitable

By Eleanor Dhillon

The proposed tax increase in Tecumseh is raising concern for some residents who are worried about their future and businesses.

The draft document, proposing that a 1.9 per cent rise in taxes was tabled Tuesday evening at Tecumseh town council. Residents are worried that the increase will affect not only themselves but their family, friends and small local businesses.

Karmjeet Sidhu is a Tecumseh resident and project manager at the YMCA. Sidhu has lived and worked in Tecumseh for over 11 years.

“I think everyone gets upset when there is a rise in taxes,” said Sidhu. “It’s less money in their pockets.”

Sidhu said that citizens should have the right to know where their taxes are being spent. Sidhu has always paid taxes, when she heard the news it worried her about her financial stability and future.

“I think we pay enough, and I don’t see where my taxes are going,” said Sidhu.

Jora Singh is a Tecumseh resident and property manager. Singh heard the news and at first he was taken back but as time went on he realized that the increase could benefit him in some ways.

“I personally think it’s unfair,” said Singh “but at the same time I recognize that more taxes also means more services for the area.”

As a property manager Singh said he will feel the effects of the tax increase and these affects may cause his income to decrease.

“It won’t affect my properties,” said Singh. “However, it will affect my profit margins, and I cannot raise the rent as I have long term tenants.”

Singh said he is more concerned for others who do not earn enough money to provide for themselves.

“I think those who earn a good wage won’t be affected at all, however those on lower wages that struggle to pay rent and keep up with the costs of living will struggle,” said Singh .

Singh said he understands what it is like to provide public services but believes in order to move forward successfully as a city, people should be taxed in other ways.

“I would try to tax people differently according to their income.” said Singh.

Singh said he also knows that living costs are always increasing.

“The cost of living is always going up,” said Singh. “Increases are inevitable.”

According to AM800, the increase will add around $50 to the tax bill of a home that is within the $250,000 price range. A public town hall meeting will take place January 29 to discuss the issue.