If nothing is forthcoming, they will have to look at deeper cuts and other desperation-driven measures to avoid a colossal tax increase. The proposed City Budget seriously threatens many of the services Torontonians have fought to maintain for decades. The combined effects of all of these would be too numerous to count, too frightening to think, will be felt throughout the city, especially by the city's most vulnerable and marginalized people. An 18 per cent tax increase on residential property will drive many people out of their homes. But this is not the end of the process.
Councillors can still make changes before the budget is approved at the end of the month.
Queen's Park could still respond to Mayor's appeal for help. Alternative Choices Toronto is a great city to live in, and this great city has been providing quality services to its residents for so many years. Selling off or mortgaging Metro Hall will not address the long-term, solution either. City Council, therefore, must work with other levels of government to negotiate a new plan for urban governance, including the redefinition of municipal roles, responsibilities and funding arrangements. In the short term, the city may consider Plan B options proposed by Councillors Olivia Chow, Joe Pantalone, Anne Johnston and David Miller.