Re: Review of church tax exemptions proposed
Dear Editor:
I was somewhat taken aback when I read in last week’s Osoyoos Times that CJ Rhodes was proposing to remove the tax exempt status from our town’s religious organizations. Having served for many years on the board of Destination Osoyoos and the latter two as chair I had the occasion to be in meetings and exchange thoughts and ideas with CJ. I have always found him to be a common sense, good idea person and an example of which was his favourite project of trying to eliminate plastic grocery bags. While they have not disappeared entirely many of us are using reusable bags everyday when we are shopping. Good work CJ!
I’m not sure where CJ got the idea to remove tax exemption from religious organizations; maybe it was the City of Penticton, where it didn’t go over to well, but I’m hoping he will rethink the direction he is talking of going.
Our town’s religious organizations, of which there are many, are woven into the very fabric of our everyday lives. The good work that is done helping people in every part of our town as well as the members of each organization taking solace and comfort from the attendance to services, in their chosen religion, is every bit as important as having Music in the Park or any other community activity that is supported by our tax dollars.
I am hoping that Mayor McKortoff and the rest of council will not support the direction that CJ is proposing.
Derek Noske, Osoyoos
