LET’S TALK! Crowsnest Pass Taxpayers bring much wisdom to the table

By Crowsnest Pass Taxpayers’ Association Board of Directors

January 23, 2025

At the recent January 23, 2025, Crowsnest Pass Taxpayers’ Association member meeting, taxpayers brought much wisdom to “table talk” conversations.  As an organization, we value the process of public participation.  It is at these times that much can be learned by giving participants an opportunity for “voice” in a safe environment.   The diversity of experiences, training, and education teaches that there is much to be learned from one another and there is much to be appreciated from one another’s knowledge.  Knowing this, as an organization, we have been intentional to inform and educate members about why taxes are high because of excessive spending practices by our municipal government.  The debt forever increasing!  We have also been mindful that, given the opportunity, taxpayers have much to say, share and contribute to these important matters.

We acknowledge the benefits of public forums and table talk conversations.  The need for expression, clarification and to be heard is important if greater understanding is to occur.  Public participation is based on the belief that those who are affected by a decision have a right to be involved in the decision-making process.  It promotes sustainable decisions by recognizing and communicating the needs and interests of all participants and stakeholders.  The Crowsnest Pass Taxpayers’ Association believes that an effective public participation and community engagement process gives the promise of deliberative communication which increases with greater participant involvement, collaboration and empowerment. 

The table talk conversations evolved around several discussion questions worth sharing.  Insightful and meaningful conversations demonstrated, when given the opportunity for voice, taxpayers bring much wisdom to the table.  The following information was presented by our members.

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Table Talk Discussions, Questions, Presentations and Responses

1.  What are your concerns about rising taxes?

• Reduced disposable Income:  Higher taxes reduce the disposable income of residents, impacting their ability to spend locally, which can stifle small businesses and the overall economy.

• Higher cost of living:  Increased taxes contribute to higher rent and ownership costs, making the area less affordable and less attractive for new residents and developers.

• Strain on Residents:  Higher taxes reduce disposable income, impacting the affordability of living and operating businesses in the area.

2.  What are your priorities for how taxes should be spent?

• Servicing lots to enable growth:  Investing in infrastructure to service more residential and commercial lots should be a priority.  This will expand the tax base, reducing the burden on current residents and businesses and attract new families, entrepreneurs and industries to the area.

• Affordable housing and development:  Ensure that newly serviced lots contribute to a mix of affordable housing and commercial opportunities to meet demand and stimulate growth.

3.  What are your thoughts about taxes being used for “long-term enrichment” such as revitalization projects, a future municipal building, etc.?

• No to a new municipal building:  A new municipal building does not directly contribute to economic development or improve the day-to-day lives of residents.  It would be a costly expenditure that diverts funds away from more pressing priorities such as: servicing land for new residential business development and investing in infrastructure that supports job creation and growth.

• Focus on growth, not bureaucracy:  Municipal resources should be focused on projects that expand the tax base, attract businesses, and reduce the financial burden on residents – not on facilities that primarily benefit municipal staff.

4.  What are your concerns should our local government continue excessive spending practices and increase debt?

• Unsustainable spending:  Continuing excessive spending without exploring cost-saving measures will increase the debt, leading to higher taxes and reduce financial flexibility for essential projects.

• Shared resources:  The municipality could reduce costs by collaborating with neighboring communities to share expensive resources, such as equipment or specialized services.  This would avoid the need for costly equipment purchases and maintenance and promote regional partnerships and resource efficiency.

• Using contractors instead of purchasing equipment:  For tasks that are seasonal or infrequent (eg snow removal, heavy construction), hiring contractors can be more cost-effective than owning and maintaining expensive equipment.

• Focus on core services:  By sharing resources and outsourcing when appropriate, the municipality can focus its budget on areas that directly benefit residents and support economic growth.

5.  What fiscal accountability will be necessary for the MCNP?

• Aggressive debt reduction plan:  Implement a focused strategy to reduce municipal debt quickly.  Lowering debt will save on interest costs, freeing up funds for essential services and future growth initiatives. 

• Balanced budget policy:  Adopt a policy that requires a balanced budget, ensuring that spending aligns with available revenues and prevents further accumulation of debt.

• No tax increases:  Commit to maintaining current tax rates, as rising property values are already increasing revenue.  This ensures residents and businesses are not further burdened, encouraging affordability and growth.

• Transparent financial reporting:  Provide regular, accessible reports to residents on how funds are being allocated and how debt reduction targets are being met.

• Prioritize spending:  Focus spending on projects that deliver the highest return on investment, such as economic development initiatives that expand the tax base and reduce reliance on residential taxes.

• Stop “Luxury” spending:  stop spending on “luxury” and spend on what needs fixing, maintenance and repairs ie roads, infrastructure, building maintenance, etc.

6.  What leadership qualities will you be seeking from candidates in the 2024 election?

• Strong financial acumen:  A leader who understands finance, business and economics to ensure efficient allocation of resources and sustainable economic growth.

• Practical problem-solving skills:  Someone who can analyze complex issues and make data-driven decisions that benefit the community.

• Integrity and character:  Leaders who are transparent, ethical and committed to serving the best interests of resident rather than serving personal or political agendas.

• Pro-business minded:  A candidate who prioritizes creating an environment that attracts businesses and industries, fostering job creation and economic diversification.

• Ability to Community engagement and public participation is vital:  More input and say regarding capital projects.  Respect for people’s opinions.  Leadership modelling and demonstration to honour diverse opinions, as well as, demonstrate successful decision-making skills and strategies for successful results-based outcomes.    

• inform and educate constituents:  Work is required in understanding MGA legislation, Bylaws, and the Historic Resources Act.

• Greater accessibility and consistency regarding decisions being made at the municipal level that impact the community and citizens.  Includes protocol as per MGA for processes and procedures being made in land sales and development; permits; residential services; MCNP budget;

• Trust worthy.  Decisions being made are in the best interests of the community and its people with full public disclosure.

7.  What might be some other concerns?

• Make Crowsnest Pass affordable again:  Taxes are too high, debt is growing, and residents are being squeezed.  We need strong leadership to get spending under control and keep money in the pockets of hardworking families.

• We need real results, not wasted dollars:  Stop funding projects that don’t create jobs or grow the economy.  Every dollar spent must serve the people, not bureaucracy.

• Growth is the answer not higher taxes:  We must focus on attracting businesses, creating jobs, and servicing land for new development.  That’s how we expect the tax base without squeezing residents dry.

• Crowsnest Pass deserves the best:  This community has so much potential, but it needs leadership that puts residents first, focuses on economic growth, and delivers results – not excuses. 

• Protect our community’s future:  Reckless spending and debt are like handing our kids and grandkids the bill for todays’ mistakes.  We need leaders who will protect this community’s financial health for generations to come.

• Stop the waste:  Every dollar wasted on unnecessary projects is a dollar taken away from hardworking residents.  We need leaders who will cut our inefficiency, hold spending accountable, and run this municipality like a business.