Candidate Questions - Carla Delaurier
1. In 2023, for several reasons, a secondary audit was requested of SAMA. SAMA declined this request. Currently the City and council have chosen to do nothing in regards to this issue.
What are you prepared to do?
Request a detailed explanation from SAMA regarding their refusal to conduct a secondary audit.
Critique the decision-making process and criteria used by SAMA for audits, as the decision rests with their Board based on recommendations from the Quality Assurance Division.
I will request a third-party assessment to ensure fair and transparent assessment methods
Highlight the need for quality assurance and address concerns about potential biases in SAMA's current assessment model.
2. Saskatoon has a Governance Committee which oversees their property tax/assessment department, and theirs far exceeds ours. Are you prepared to implement the changes needed in order to mirror/reflect theirs? Or something better?
If elected to city council, I would advocate for the establishment of an Advisory Committee to oversee property tax and assessment processes. This committee would include council members, community representatives, and independent experts to ensure assessments are conducted fairly and transparently. I would create this system to reflect our city's size and resources while maintaining principles of accountability and community engagement. Transparency and ease of use are paramount. The appeal process is not user friendly. We need the taxpayers to weigh in to create a process that works for everyone.
3. a). In your words, What does a Moose Jaw Citizen say when they are asked “What do you think of Moose Jaw?”
We love our city, but not our governance. Our rich history, beautiful parks, family programs with sports and the arts, and the small-town feeling make Moose Jaw an amazing place to live. People are very concerned with our infrastructure and property taxes. They want to be able to make improvements to their homes, but money is tight, and the property taxes are just one more hit to their budget.
b). If you are elected, what will the Citizens be saying in 4 years?
Taxes are fair, City Hall is partnering with developers, not competing with them, and we love our roads. Citizens are aware of city projects, the cost, the timelines, and they are confident in decisions made by council.
4. Right now there is a lot of talk about a proposed hotel on the zero block of River Street West. Rumours which include the potential building of a parkade by the City in the area.
The question is as an elected official how much City money - if any - are you prepared to spend either directly or indirectly in an effort to see the proposed hotel development get off the ground?
The establishment of an Economic Development Advisory Council (EDAC) in Moose Jaw could significantly enhance the city's approach to economic strategies and infrastructure projects, such as constructing a parkade. An EDAC would provide valuable recommendations on economic and business development issues, ensuring alignment with strategic goals and priorities. However, given Moose Jaw's current financial commitments, such as the Crescent View Lift Station project critical for growth and infrastructure, it is crucial to balance new initiatives with existing fiscal responsibilities. Experienced developers could bring in outside funds and expertise, ensuring that projects are executed efficiently and effectively without overburdening local taxpayers. This approach allows Moose Jaw to benefit from economic development while managing its financial commitments responsibly.
5. Are you in favour of more or less funding by the way of levies? Or do you favour finding more funding by the way of tax increases?
Can you explain your reasoning?
Levies disproportionately affect lower-income residents, so maintaining a balance is essential. By focusing on efficient governance and responsible spending, we can avoid placing unnecessary financial burdens on our residents. It's not just about raising more money but about making the most of what we already have. This approach aligns with maximizing the impact of the city's resources while promoting fairness across all income levels. As my parents always told me, "It's not how much you have, but what you do with what you have."
6. In your own words what is the most important infrastructure projection that needs to be completed.
Where or how would you locate funding for this project?
The Crescent View Lift Station project is crucial for Moose Jaw’s growth and to prevent severe issues like infrastructure failure, which could negatively impact the city's health, safety, and economy. While the project’s cost has surged to $66.4 million, The city included potential federal funding from the Disaster Mitigation and Adaptation Fund (DMAF) in its budget—a risky approach given that grants are not guaranteed. You cannot count on funds you might receive. As we did not receive this funding, Moose Jaw needs to work overtime to get the funding in place.
The immediate priority must be reassessing current projects and reallocating resources to this critical infrastructure. If the lift station fails, it will affect every resident and business in Moose Jaw. Ensuring the project's completion without relying solely on uncertain funding is a necessary step to safeguard the city's future.
7. Affordability is a major concern for many residents.
Are you prepared - yes or no - to strive to make Moose Jaw more affordable?Can you briefly explain how you would accomplish this?
To begin, we need to address the issue of city property taxes. We need fair taxation. I propose an Entry Level Home Ownership plan that offers property tax concessions on residential properties valued up to $600,000. This initiative aims to stimulate the housing market by encouraging residents to upgrade their homes, thereby freeing up more affordable housing options for others. The resulting increase in housing mobility could lead to job creation and economic growth as local businesses benefit from increased activity and out-of-city businesses consider Moose Jaw for relocation due to improved housing affordability.