We know for whom you toll

An open letter to Premier Gordon Campbell.

I have written several times to your transportation minister, to no avail, regarding the proposed tolls on the twinned Port Mann Bridge.

I suggest that tolls – $3-$4 – not be put on the bridge because it is an unfair burden on the people east of the bridge who will use it the most, while rich Vancouverites in West Vancouver and other areas use bridges, such as the Lion’s Gate, without tolls. They, of course, will also ride toll-free on the new Sea-to-Sky Highway.

This Port Mann toll is highly unfair, undemocratic and should not be allowed. Money for the new bridge – and all bridges and roadways – should be taken from general revenue taxes charged to all British Columbians equally. That is the democratic way of doing things.

Considering Highway 1 is a federal responsibility, how could you come to an agreement with them on a pricing structure such as this? I have written Prime Minister Stephen Harper about my concerns.

In addition, B.C. has the highest rate of child poverty in the country. But you have tons of money to spend on a 2010 Olympics two-week party to the benefit of the rich.

It’s about priorities, Mr. Campbell, and yours are all screwed up.

Social-housing money – so urgently needed, especially on the Downtown Eastside – is not forthcoming, so as to pay for the 2010 Olympics. The drug problem just keeps getting worse and is not adequately provided for. Shameful!

Lastly, the carbon tax on gasoline and home heating will add 12-15 cents per litre over the next four years. I estimate the $100 dividend cheque I received will barely pay for the extra taxes on my gasoline for just one year. I, as a pensioner, will have to eat the three remaining years of carbon taxes till 2012. And all of this when energy prices are going through the roof!

My carbon tax dividend cheque will be spent on gasoline south of the border, and all gas I purchase now will be purchased in the U.S.

For these reasons – and more – I will do everything I can to defeat your government in next May’s election. I voted for you last time, thinking change would be good for the province, but never again.

John Allison, White Rock