News Release

HRM Tax Structure Committee Presents Recommendations to Council

(Tuesday, November 26/2002 - release at 6 p.m.)-- HRM's Tax Structure Committee submitted its Public Consultation Report to Halifax Regional Council today.

The Committee recommended that its report be tabled until final deliberations on December 10th to allow members of Council to digest the information and give the public an opportunity to review the report. It is also recommended that Chief Administrative Officer George McLellan develop strategies to allow residents of HRM an opportunity to participate in the decision-making process.

"We are extremely pleased with the Commitment to Community 2002 initiative," said Councillor Ron Cooper, Chair of the HRM Tax Structure Committee. "Although the level of public participation was impressive, there is concern that we did not capture the views of all citizens of HRM and some believe that additional public input is needed."

"These sessions also revealed that HRM staff need to build stronger bridges of understanding with citizens and that the residents of the municipality want to be involved in HRM's decision-making process," added Councillor Cooper.

Copies of the report will be made available at all HRM Regional Library branches, HRM Customer Service Centres and on the HRM Website. A dedicated phone line and e-mail address will also be made available to capture additional comments from HRM residents. Those requesting additional information may contact 490-6361 or thibeat@region.halifax.ns.ca. All inquiries will receive a response within one business day.

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Councillor Ron Cooper (District 4-- Cole Harbour North/Cherry Brook)
Chair, HRM Tax Structure Committee
(902) 488-4804