Freedom Flyer 18

the official newsletter of the
Freedom Party of Ontario

February 1991

Article electronically reproduced from:

St Thomas Times-Journal

December 7, 1990

Elgin citizens are urged to not pay tax increases

By TOM FROESE T-J Staff Reporter Will St. Thomas-Elgin become another Blenheim? Ray Monteith says yes. He is preparing to begin a tax revolt in St. Thomas-Elgin similar to that in Blenheim, Ont., to tell the provincial government that it's wrong to raise taxes and increase the provincial deficit. "I want to encourage people of Elgin not to pay any more additional taxes. That includes municipal and school taxes, but I'm really after school taxes," said the Elgin Riding Freedom Party candidate, who has gained a reputation for strong-willed ideas during the last three elections. Ray Monteith ...'really after school taxes'He agrees with provincial party leader Robert Metz, of London, who says the NDP government is spreading the poverty trap and expanding the recession through its latest plan to pump $1.4 billion into new programs. Those programs, which include various construction projects and $700 million in tax breaks to individuals and businesses are geared to save more than 20,000 Ontario jobs during the next year from the effects of the recession, says the NDP. NOT ENOUGH But Mr. Monteith says the move is not enough. He says all levels of government can carry out their mandate for less money from taxpayers. "I'm against any more debt. We eventually have to pay them off," he said. Mr. Monteith suggests the province should give more incentive for people to work. For St. Thomas he suggests the city could give some people on unemployment insurance jobs through the works department, to do things such as clean the area's bush and ravines. Mr. Monteith also said the proposed ball complex should not be the responsibility of taxpayers. "I can't afford any more taxes. The ball players should get pledges.I think Meadowgreen has what's needed." Spending on education will be the main item on Mr. Monteith's agenda for his coming tax revolt, he says. "The two boards should work together and share their facilities," he said. "The system is spending too much money. There must be another way of doing things cheaper. We have to find a way to reduce and end up with the same product. He added that people have to be reeducated to "get out and do something."

"Let's get rid of some government." We don't need the senate. When you can stack it get what you want, let's get rid of it. We're overgoverned," he said.