By Brandon Bouchard -- Board Chair, Downtown Business Association

letter to the editor

Letter to the Editor: In response to downtown property owners threatening to withhold property taxes

Jan 27, 2024 | 1:22 PM

The below letter is submitted in response to the article entitled ‘Property owners in downtown Red Deer threaten to withhold property taxes until plan for shelter is revealed and OPS removed’, published Jan. 26, 2024 on rdnewsNOW.com

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Dear Editor,

I write to address the concerns raised by nearly 40 property owners in downtown Red Deer, particularly in response to their petition to withhold property taxes until a comprehensive plan is presented regarding the permanent homeless shelter and Overdose Prevention Site (OPS).

I understand the frustrations these property owners are grappling with, as highlighted in the recent article and having witnessed the seemingly never-ending negative activity on a daily basis for myself. I get it. The challenges, from loitering to safety concerns, undoubtedly affect not only our properties but also our daily lives and businesses. It’s disheartening to hear that open dialogues with the city may have yet to yield the desired outcomes.

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However, I urge caution regarding the decision to withhold property taxes. While sympathizing with their predicament, this approach seems counterproductive, risking a message of disengagement. More significantly, it indirectly impacts the city’s ability to fund crucial programs that address not only the challenges faced by business owners but also those affecting the vulnerable sector.

Property taxes play a pivotal role in supporting essential services and programs aimed at tackling social issues, including homelessness and addiction. Withholding these funds may inadvertently hinder the city’s capacity to implement constructive solutions that benefit the entire community.

It is vital for these property owners to consider the broader impact of their actions. Let’s not forget the big picture here. Instead of taking what might be perceived as a somewhat petulant approach, there’s an opportunity for continued engagement in open dialogue with city officials. Together, we can find solutions that address immediate concerns while contributing to the overall well-being of the community.

The strength of our community lies in collaborative efforts, a shared commitment to overcoming challenges, and setting a positive example for future generations. Choosing to persevere through difficulties rather than disengage sends a powerful message of responsibility and dedication to finding solutions for the greater good.”

– Brandon Bouchard — Board Chair, Downtown Business Association

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EDITOR’S NOTE: The views expressed above are those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of rdnewsNOW or Pattison Media. Column suggestions and letters to the editor can be sent to news@rdnewsNOW.com.