A slight majority of Ponoka residents who took part in a web poll are willing to pay more in taxes for increased recreation services.
Ponoka News posed this question in a web poll last week: Are you willing to pay more taxes for increased recreation services in the Town of Ponoka?
Out of the 100 who participated, a slight majority of 50 votes squeaked ahead answering “Yes” to the question, while 45 answered “No” and five were “Unsure.”
Those who voted expressed some of their thoughts on the matter in the comments section of Ponoka News’ Facebook page, which showed that they are passionate about recreation.
For some, the question is too simple and needs further research and clarification. Sharon Klinger suggested usage is an important factor.
“How about some stats on usage and expenses vs revenue?” asked Klinger. “Let’s see if the current facilities are being used to capacity. Then when the public has some true facts on current recreation in Ponoka let’s do a survey.”
For Tonielle Marie, increased taxes is a “Nope, nope, nope.”
Other concerns for increased taxes related to the swimming pool. For reader Jennifer Lloyd, seeing the pool contaminated due to issues with swimmers makes her not want to use it.
“Kudos to the pool for closing down because of this and thank you for putting the safety of everyone first, but I won’t pay higher taxes for some people to not have respect for their own town and the facilities it offers,” said Lloyd.
For others, the question of services and recreation is an important consideration to make Ponoka attractive; plowing the streets among them. Reader Mark Nadon referred to other communities.
“Let’s look at our neighbouring towns…their parks and Christmas lights and pools and flowers and the list goes on. Oh, and their plowed and maintenance of streets all year round,” said Nadon.
“Catch where I am going with this? Show of hands whom goes for a short drive to utilize the pool then shops then dinner and a movie. Taxes is not the issue, catching up with time is.”