To: The Council of the Town of Grimsby and the Niagara Regional Council

We, the undersigned residents of Grimsby and the Niagara Region, are calling for immediate action in response to the ongoing and unsustainable increases in property taxes. Year after year, we have witnessed significant hikes in our tax bills—often far outpacing inflation—without clear, accessible explanations or corresponding improvements in local services.

As citizens, homeowners, and taxpayers, we are deeply concerned about the affordability crisis that is unfolding in our own backyards. Many of us are on fixed or single incomes, and the compounding financial pressure is making it increasingly difficult to remain in the communities we love.

We believe that transparency and accountability are the foundation of good governance. Therefore, we respectfully demand:

🔍 A Full and Independent Review of Tax Expenditures:
A comprehensive audit of how municipal and regional tax dollars have been allocated and spent over the past five years.
A breakdown of spending by department and initiative, including capital projects, staffing, and contracted services.

📊 Public Reporting and Accessibility:
Clear, easy-to-understand summaries of the findings made available to the public.
Regular updates on budget planning, spending priorities, and financial forecasts.

🗣️ Community Engagement:
Public forums or town halls where residents can ask questions and provide input on future budget decisions.
A commitment to meaningful consultation before any further significant tax increases are proposed.
We are not opposed to paying our fair share. But we believe that fairness includes being informed, involved, and assured that our money is being used responsibly and effectively.

We urge the Town of Grimsby and the Niagara Region to take this petition seriously and act swiftly to restore public trust and ensure long-term affordability for all residents.

Sincerely,
The Undersigned Residents of Grimsby and the Niagara Region