Statement by Withheld Withheld

I cannot identify myself, but I am a ward 8 resident. My entire family resides on the mountain. The very councillors who are supposed to represent us and who are trying to thwart this opportunity need to think very hard who they think they're speaking for. It is not the 100 senior citizens who show up for a town hall at Westcliffe Mall. More of us are listening, and watching, even if we don't show up in person to the meetings. And the positions being taken are frankly very disappointing.

Our city is at a crucial turning point. Do we choose progress? Are we visionary? Do we think about our city's future prosperity and the prosperity of our future residents - our babies, our nieces, nephews and grandchildren, the future newcomers of Hamilton - or do we stay stuck in the status quo, narrowly thinking in terms of only what is good for one part of the city? Fixing potholes and putting up stop signs?

A vote of confidence in LRT is a vote for enhanced investment opportunity that benefits EVERYONE across the city. The tax uplift from future investment because of the LRT is badly needed. Our taxes are currently approx. 87% weighted on our residents and about 13% commercial/industrial. Something drastic needs to be done to balance this equation and LRT is a significant catalyst in that effort. It isn't the silver bullet, just as the Red Hill was not the only answer to opening up transportation routes for better goods and people movement - but it was a huge move in the right direction. The increased investment = lower tax bill and more $ for the City to yes, spend on those annual road repairs/huge infrastructure deficit, but also new rec centres, more parks, enhanced programs for families, etc.

I urge council to please, please consider the bigger picture. The many questions and unanswered details will come, but I know making this happen starts with a huge leap of faith. And hope. Belief that we can have - actually, DESERVE - a world-class city that everyone can be proud to call home.

Do the right thing. For all of us.

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