date posted: 2002-07-01
Last month, I wrote about one proposal which has been put forward related to the proceeds of the sale of Richmond Hill Hydro, namely to spend 5 million dollars a year for the next five years, acquiring land on the Oak Ridges Moraine which has already been approved for development by the Province.
But wait, there are more ideas and suggestions as to what to do with these funds - and there will no doubt be more forthcoming over the Summer.
The Town could use some of the proceeds to leverage or advance the fundraising which is underway to build an addition to York Central Hospital. The hospital serves Richmond Hill and is a vital component of our community. Residents of our Town would benefit if we could somehow advance the construction schedule by assisting in financing the addition. Anyone who has spent upward of six hours in the Emergency Department at York Central might like this proposal.
Or, what about the Arts community? There are some who say Richmond Hill needs an Arts and/or Cultural Centre including a Theatre.
Or, how about those residents who live in Oak Ridges? Many would like a community centre and a pool to be located in that part of our Town.
How about a Youth Centre?
What about some sort of a tax stabilization program whereby some of the proceeds could be used to cushion residents against future property tax increases?
Maybe a new Town Hall or Town Square could be constructed in the Village Core to help revitalize the downtown area.
Have no doubt, some interest groups will lobby to have their proposals take priority. It is up to every resident of our Town to consider all options and help your elected officials make good, reasoned decisions on this important matter.