Haley Bateman says the provincial government must step up
A Niagara regional councillor is not giving up in getting a better funding deal with the province, and easing the burden on local taxpayers.
Haley Bateman is introducing her "New Deal for Niagara" tomorrow, stressing to the Ontario government it must help as the region handles increasing responsibilities.
She wants Niagara to be a pilot project for a new deal, including for health care. "We are being funded 59% by the provincial government, and I was in a meeting with Health Minister Sylvia Jones in 2023, where they promised us 75% funding. So, we're short $11-million, and that money should not be put on the municipal levy, that should be put on the province."
She says the in-coming appointed Niagara regional chair, and 12 mayor structure means more behind the scene staff to be hired, costing more that current councillors.
Niagara tourism is included in her "New Deal for Niagara", tourism attracting 14-million people. "That brings in $3-billion in revenue for the provincial and federal governments. The majority of our services are funded by 500,000 residents, yet we're serving 14-million. So, if you're wondering why your taxes are so high in Niagara."
She adds a chair and 12 mayors as council means a Conservative government in Niagara.
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