Winnipeggers! Speak out on tax changes!!!

The historic property tax freeze in Winnipeg has come to an end.

After 14 consecutive years of holding the line and finding other ways to cover the costs of running its services, city politicians said they could no longer afford to keep the freeze.

Winnipeggers will have a chance to provide input on the 2012 proposed operating budget at these upcoming committee meetings:

• Infrastructure renewal and public works (March 5).

• Property and development (March 6).

• Protection and community services (March 9).

Anyone wanting to be involved is asked to call 204-986-3732.

The city's executive policy committee hears delegations on March 13 and 

tables recommendations on March 14.

Council votes on the budget March 20.

Property tax changes

                      1999-2011 (cumulative)        2012

Vancouver             47.7%                         Not available

Edmonton              59.0%                           5.4%

Calgary                  52.2%                           6.0%

Saskatoon             45.5%                           4.0%

Regina                   31.6%                           3.9%

Winnipeg               –6.0%                           3.5% (proposed)

(Source: City of Winnipeg)