Albert Witteveen wonders why only regional mayors were included in the region's fate
A Niagara regional councillor wonders why only regional mayors received a letter from Chair Bob Gale concerning the future of the regional government.
Albert Witteveen says he was elected by the same people that elected his mayor, and wonders why councillors are excluded.
Chair Gale sent a letter to the mayors and provincial government indicating a change in regional government is needed, that it's too costly for taxpayers, and a new model is needed.
Witteveen adds he's open to discussing any option. "Everybody is pre-concluding the outcome before the conversation even started, so that's the interesting part of it. And, I hope the province is keeping an open mind, and allowing us to find a solution that's made in Niagara."
He adds since Niagara doesn't have a central city, the regional boundary should align with provincial boundary.
He also says he's a taxpayer too, and wants value for his money.
He understands there's always people who want less government. "I agree with that, but at the end of the day, to me it's about what services we provide, and if we're looking to save money, we have to ask if we're willing to do without."
He says there'll be a committee meeting of council Thursday afternoon to discuss this.
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