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Town to receive financial help I'd like to share a bit of good news for the Town of Halton Hills. Federal and provincial budgets do have significant impacts on municipalities. You've heard many municipal mayors and councillors complain about the lack of funding from the federal and provincial governments. There is a good reason why we complain. Do you know that only 8 per cent of all taxes collected are municipal taxes? Yet, municipalities are responsible for 50 per cent of infrastructure. That is unbelievable! That is why municipalities have a difficult time in repairing roads, replacing bridges, etc. Now for the good news. The federal government is going to continue giving towns and cities a portion of the gas tax. This much-needed money is going to continue to 2014. In the same week, the provincial government has finally come up with an exit strategy to end GTA pooling. Pooling is where approximately $182 of your property taxes goes directly into the Toronto coffers. This has been going on for years thanks to former Premier Mike Harris. The McGuinty government has listened, and I believe our recent press conference at Queen's Park (Fairness for Halton) with Regional Chair Gary Carr, myself and the other three Halton regional mayors didn't hurt a bit to get the message out. On average, Halton Region has been sending approximately $42 million to Toronto, and every year there will be a further reduction until it is eliminated. The only reason why I am not totally jumping for joy is that pooling won't be com- Rick Bonnette pletely phased out until 2013. To me, it would have made more sense to have it eliminated in the next four-year term of the provincial government. Mr. Tory and Mr. Hampton, what are your thoughts? ··· The Homecoming 2007 event will take place in Georgetown July 27, 28, and 29. I am humbled by the sense of "community" I see from local businesses and residents daily. Georgetown is rich in history and culture. With "deep roots" in Halton Hills, and your support, we can ensure the spirit of this event becomes a time that is remembered by our community for generations to come. For more information on this exciting event please check out the website at www.georgetown2007.ca. I look forward to seeing everyone at Homecoming ··· A huge thank you to everyone who participated in the 20-Minute Makeover on April 20, and the big community clean-up day on April 21. I saw many of you hard at work. Our town is a better place because of your efforts. --Rick Bonnette is the mayor of Halton Hills