The rural focus group, led by John Cullen and Ian Angus, addressed the council regarding the unfair treatment of Ward 2 residents post-amalgamation at the regular council meeting on March 18.
They highlighted that despite initial agreements for fair taxation and service levels, Ward 2 taxes have risen 110 percent while Ward 1 taxes increased only 17 percent, Angus said.
He cited a 2014 petition with 81 percent support from Ward 2, which was ignored.
The group presented data showing Ward 2’s mill rate increased by 122 percent compared to Hamilton Township’s 4.4 percent decrease.
They called for the restoration of fairness, including the reinstatement of Ward 2’s double votes and equal tax rates with Hamilton Township, and threatened to return in four weeks for a decision.
Here is the presentation to Port Hope council by Ian Angus:
