Municipalities pushing for change when, it calculated, the gap for CanadianContinued from page 8municipalities alone was $123 billion longer. From 1955 to 2007, the federal Kathys visits with her mom Finance Minister Jim Flaherty counteredshare of public infrastructure fell from 27 that municipalities should take care of per cent to five per cent while the munici-themselves and that Ottawa was not in theused to be about groceries, pal share increased from 27 per cent to 55 pothole business.per cent, according to a 2008 report.The attitude changed as the recessionEarlier this month, the mayors of laundry & cleaningtook hold and the federal government tookCanadas largest cities agreed, at a meeting into account the jobs that could be createdin Halifax, that municipalities must watch through infrastructure projects. However,the new majority government of Stephen as the infrastructure deficit grows and theHarper to ensure there is a change.economy resumes, the traditional equationVancouver Mayor Gregor Robertson, is back in force.chair of a big-city caucus in the FederationThe federation points out that 92 perof Canadian Municipalities (FCM), said he cent of a Canadians tax dollar goes to thehopes municipal leaders and the Tories can two upper levels of government, but munic-develop a far-reaching infrastructure plan ipalities are responsible for more than half that wont drop in priority as the new gov-the existing infrastructure and have to doernment tries to cut costs.whatever jobs are passed to them withAfter the Federation issued a report on the remaining eight per cent.the national infrastructure deficit in 2007 Speak up!You can comment on any story in today's Oakville Beaver at oakvillebeaver.comNow they are about catching up with each otherIf helping your parent live independently has become moreabout the to-do list than about time together, there areoptions that can help combine convenience and care with an active lifestyle. Chartwell retirement residences provide the safety and security your parent needs with the services and activities they want. And that way, your time together can really bespent on the important things in life like catching up with each other.Ask about our limited time 2 MONTHS FREE *RENT PROMOTION!Call today to book your personal visit & complimentary lunch.905-257-0095 www.chartwellreit.caCome in and see how it feels*Some conditions apply.9 Friday, June 24, 2011 OAKVILLE BEAVER www.insideHALTON.com