I have been following with interest the recent discussion on the possibility of adding a tax levy to hire private contractors to clear residents' sidewalks of snow.

Initially proposed by Brian McHattie for his ward, it has now engaged the attention of Dundas Councillor Russ Powers. While on the surface this might seem an attractive prospect, I would like to express my strong objection to it.

My understanding is that this levy would be added to all constituents' property tax bills with no exemptions granted, a measure patently unfair to those without walkways. Dundas has a myriad of such areas.

As well, I vehemently oppose having to pay for someone else's dereliction of civic responsibility. Far better would be to consistently and vigorously enforce the existing snow removal bylaw, which stipulates fines for those failing to clear the walks in front of their homes within 24 hours of a snowfall.

Additionally, with the disproportionately high tax burden currently carried by homeowners, to expect even more from us is unacceptable.

Lorne Warwick

Dundas