September 2007 - page 1

Message from the President

Members and Friends

I hope that you are enjoying the spectacular weather that we have experienced, and that your summer is going well.

It has been relatively quiet in the past few weeks, but there are some significant issues that we are watching. You may know that the Township has planned a significant capital spending program over the next 5 years, including new or upgraded fire halls, parks, community centres, roads and administrative facilities. Unfortunately, when the bids for some of the projects came in, they were significantly over budget. Spending is on hold, and this will be the subject of up-coming Council meetings. There are other significant issues that will be coming before Council, and we will be there.

On a positive note, we have attracted more corporate members this year, but are always looking for more permanent, seasonal, and corporate members. We also have openings for some additional members of our volunteer board of directors. Please consider helping.

Madeline Fielding

Correction

The Muskoka Ratepayers' Association regrets using the word "depleted" in our description of the financial reserves at the Township, and wish to go on record as retracting the word "depleted," and to further commend Township Council and staff for their competent stewardship of Townships financial accounts.

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