The Editor,
Re. "Welcome. That will cost $50k" (The Tri-City News, May 18).
I can't believe that the city of Coquitlam is looking at ways on how to spend a $3.4 million surplus of taxpayers' money. I agree with Coun. Lou Sekora that this money should have been appropriately allocated during the fall budget deliberation.
It this were Telus, Hydro, Fortis, ICBC or the like, we would be getting a refund of our premiums. But it seems that when it comes to governments, local and otherwise, they just look for another way to blow that money.
That is our money and any surplus should be returned to ratepayers.
Governments are too quick to finds unique ways to waste our thinning tax dollars; for example, it is suggested money be used to install more roadside signage indicating one is entering Coquitlam. What a waste of money. Just look at the two signs erected on Lougheed Highway. Instead of a simple board mounted on two posts indicating "Welcome To Coquitlam," we have artistic signs made of concrete, and stone work that cost a fortune, not to mention the useless landscaping surrounding them that will need to be maintained.
We have got to get government spending under control. Money should be spent on what's required, not what's nice to have.
Andy Cassidy, Coquitlam
