“Managing our resources is the cure” says Amherstburg resident

In times of economic uncertainty, an optimistic vision and understanding is the prerequisite for taking things in the right direction.

Soon, our town council will start budget deliberations for the next fiscal year. Now more than ever, we require strong political leadership.

The obvious slowdown in the economy, the local unemployment rate at 11.2 per cent are coupled with a slowdown in area investment and lower economic growth.

Many shovel-ready projects have been put on hold. A possible slowdown in housing would make things worse. We have seen this before – individual investors and business leaders have chosen to stay on the sidelines. Of course, they will proceed with having approvals on paper creating the illusion that everything is fine. It’s not true.

In the past, federal, provincial and municipal governments have stimulated the economy with borrowed money. Not this time. 

High debt and high interest rates adds additional pain. Increasing mortgage payments for new renewals will leave consumers with less disposable income. 

Locally and nationally, the issue of trade uncertainty will not disappear anytime soon. This is reality and to counter it will require fiscal restraint at every level. 

We now know that raising taxes is not an option. After 17 per cent increases in the last three years, this is not a cure. Less spending is.

We have created a diverse and vibrant community. The historic district and beautiful waterfront are our major assets. We have more to do. The historic past will help to shape our future. Promoting tourism will create jobs and growth.

Thanks to those investors with the vision and the foresight to move in that direction. As a bedroom community to Windsor, we will benefit for the future expansion already underway in manufacturing and other industries.

The new Gordie Howe International Bridge will add to it. Saying competitive will attract investment. That is needed to grow the local economy.

 Not supporting a levy under consideration on new developments is an absolute must. 

Double dipping shouldn’t be allowed. They already receive taxpayers funding currently under a new levy proposed for the County of Essex. 

At a time they not only give themselves a large pay increase and, using their numbers, a record $347 million of cash on hand, it is irresponsible and contrary to the belief of building affordable housing.

Managing our resources is the cure.

—Frank Cerasa

Amherstburg

“Managing our resources is the cure” says Amherstburg resident