By Saskia Warrick
The People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) has strongly opposed the recent decision by the Mayor and City Council (M&CC) to grant a reduction in rates and taxes for political parties.
The council, led by a majority of APNU members, approved a reduction to 25 percent of the valuated rate for political entities, a move that has sparked controversy and objection from PPP/C councilors.
During the last M&CC statutory meeting, the decision was made despite ongoing complaints from the council about a lack of funds for basic operations.
PPP/C councilors, including Alfonso De Armas, Patricia Chase-Greene, and Steven Jacobs, have criticized the decision, arguing that all political parties should be required to pay their rates and taxes like other citizens.
Patricia Chase-Greene, a former Mayor and PPP/C Councillor, highlighted that the council’s bylaws, specifically section 214 of the Municipal and District Councils Act, do not provide for such reductions for political parties.
She and her colleagues emphasized that the decision was made without proper preparation or consideration, as indicated by the immediate revisions required after the document was presented.
Steven Jacobs further criticized the decision, stating that it would unfairly benefit their party and undermine the principle of equal responsibility for all political entities.
The controversy surrounding this issue reflects broader concerns about transparency and fairness in municipal governance.