City should merge while it can
Re: Writing for SD40 is on the wall (Letters, NewsLeader, Jan.16) and Taxes out of control (Jan. 18)
I support both these positions and will take the point one, or maybe three steps further by saying that New Westminster can no longer afford to be a city nor have its own school district.
I have taken all of my 61 years in New Westminster to form this position. Born here, graduated from McBride and NWSS, with family here more than 100 years, three family homes built here, still standing and still paying taxes (both me and the houses).
New Westminster is a busy intersection within Metro Vancouver, requiring expensive infrastructure, expensive maintenance and expensive management.
Our demographics and tax base have changed dramatically over the last 40 years, putting a huge strain on the remaining taxpayers and our school district.
I do not believe the City of New Westminster nor School District 40 can afford to be independent.
The longer we wait before making this decision, the more difficult and expensive it will be to partner with any neighbouring communities that will accept us.
Roald Liset
New Westminster
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