Question Rebates & Give-a-ways?

 For a long time now Cascade has needed a new library that we are having trouble affording. Could it be because of the city’s give-a-ways to businesses under a variety of different programs?

The most spectacular being the quarter of a million ($257,000) Jesse Loewen to refurbish the old Farmers Bank Building. He was back at council this week looking for another $80,000! 

It is interesting to contrast the businesses who got loans—Cheryl’s Flour Garden and the Corner Tap, have up and running businesses, paying taxes and paying their loans back.

One could argue it is a good idea for the city to encourage business by loans, but when the programs are simply funneling money well-established, profitable companies, they should be questioned. Almost every council meeting features some such give-a-way: Centro got a $60,000 tax rebate at the 9 Aug. meeting and at the late July meeting Cascade Lumber got $20,000 rebate to build a new warehouse.  At this rate, we will never get a new library.