Dear Editor,
As a newcomer to Rimbey it is hard not to get caught up in the pre-election frenzy with all the issues coming to light.
On one side of the fence there is ‘The Old Boys Club’ who are in denial of some of the questionable spending of the taxpayer’s money. There are also situations where devious and vindictive reprisals were used against their own taxpayers, just because they exercised their democratic right to voice their opinions on matters, rather than except the ‘mushroom stance.’
Opting out when the ‘heat’ is on, is not proof of innocence, by any council member The only way to ‘clean the air’ on theses issues is to have an independent, un-biased, or provincial audit of the past several years spending. This may cost the town some money, but it is a small price to pay to clear the foul air. This would also set a new standard for the future council. Should we not question why this procedure has not been suggested by the present council?
On the other side of the fence, we have the grass roots tax-payers of Rimbey, many of whom are saying, “I have had enough of this and am not taking it anymore.” This reaction is not unique to only a small town such as Rimbey, but a general feeling towards all levels of government.
Our tax dollars are being squandered by all levels of government with accountability whatsoever. When questioning their extravagant spending, their answer is, “We were elected by the people and that gives us the right to do what we feel is necessary.” We must question, what public figure has the moral right to spend excessive amounts of money on a meal accompanied by expensive wine at the taxpayers expense, when many of us are lucky to have an occasional $20 meal, with a $3 glass of wine.
Remember citizens of Rimbey all changes begin at the grass roots level. You have the final say as to what you expect from your elected officials, so screen all the candidates and determine what they stand for. Then for heaven’s sake get out and vote. If you don’t then you deserve the government you get.
Wilbert Beaugard