Dear Editor,
We at City Hall would like to express thanks and appreciation to all those, property-owners, who paid their rates to the City. Indeed, we were particularly pleased with those who paid on time without reminders or notices. Honestly, this is the quality of civic support that the city needs to fulfil its obligations to its citizens. We appreciate too, those senior citizens who continue to make every effort to honour their commitment to the city of Georgetown. This level of cooperation could only advance the work of the municipality and the city. Thank you all.
Recognising that some of our property-owners are experiencing financial difficulties, we have granted an amnesty. Under this generous offer, the council would waive the interest due by property owners provided they pay all of the outstanding demand. This is reasonable and we are happy to do it. We believe that those who are financially challenged should take full advantage of this period. It provides ratepayers with the opportunity to save as well as to honour their commitment to the city. It is a win win arrangement. However, it is important to note that this amnesty came to an end on December 31st 2006.
Unfortunately, some of our corporate citizens have not done so well in this area of their responsibility. In fact, we are very disappointed in the way some businesses continue to treat their paying of taxes to the city. These corporations and businesses utilize municipal services and facilities in direct and indirect ways. Those citizens who support their businesses use municipal facilities. Yet some of these very corporations have not been paying their taxes. Why should anyone have to make the point that corporate social responsibility includes paying taxes to the city? How is it possible, in this period of globalization, when the emphasis is on ethical business behaviour, for corporations and companies to make paying taxes an issue?
We are aware that there is the thinking in some circles, that the business of businesses is to make profits for their shareholders. But no business could be properly managed in an unstable or unhealthy environment. The council has the statutory responsibility to ensure the integrity of the city. Therefore, corporations which operate in the city should be happy to make a contribution to the health and development of the city by paying their rates. This is a very serious issue, because it affects the ability of the council to provide for the development and prosperity of the city. This has implications for the growth and development of corporations, the city and by extension our economy.
We hope that all of our property-owners will make a good resolution to ensure the integrity of their accounts at the city’s treasury. Let us endeavour to work together to make Georgetown a better place for 2007.
Yours faithfully,
Royston King
Public Relations Officer
Mayor and City Council
