Addressing Affordability and Efficiency

Look back to 2023 (1): our Edmontonians are asking for affordability and they are asking for core services to be delivered in their neighbourhoods.

To address affordability, there are some things I believe that our city can do. First, we can strive for efficiency – to get the most out of our city’s revenue sources – the biggest one of course being tax dollars.

FYI... I was the only councillor who voted against the city's increasing tax of 6.6% for 2024.

Second, we can look to diversify our revenue sources – for example – by supporting our local businesses. When our local businesses are doing well, this strongly supports our city's economic recovery and growth; this also expands our city’s revenue, which could offset residential property taxes – which makes things more affordable for average Edmontonians.

This brings me to one of the things I’m proud of – supporting our small businesses including supporting our city’s night-time economy.

I’m seeing various cultural groups, creating outdoor night-time markets during some weekends in the summer. I’m feeling encouraged by what I’ve been seeing with our expanding night-time economy. I’m also proud of what we have been able to do to support our local businesses within our city.

If you have any inputs or thoughts would like to share with me, please feel free to contact me at Jennifer.Rice@edmonton.ca, or 780-496-8132