Having followed budget processes in West Grey over the last few years (and other jurisdictions before that) we are continually discouraged with West Grey Council, with some blame on senior staff.

A 9.6 per cent increase is almost beyond belief in these times of financial hardship and increasing interest rates. Last year was bad enough, having one of, if not the highest percentage increases in Grey County.

Is this year to be the same?

It is four years until the next election which may seem a long way off but isn't that far in reality. We can assure this Council that if this increase stands and isn't brought much closer to inflation then you have lost our votes, plus others that we have talked with.

Two votes may not seem like a lot but when you look at the terrible voter turn out in West Grey in the last election two votes can make a difference.

Speaking of, electronic / telephone voting, does not bring out the voter, it reduces it. This should be self evident. What cost is democracy? People do go out to vote.

Please think of those less fortunate, those on fixed incomes, and those working at keeping their businesses operational before passing this budget.

We and others will be watching.

The O'Briens, West Grey