Bonnie Crombie: Seniors Deserve Straight Answers on Alvin’s Tax Scheme

MISSISSAUGA — Bonnie Crombie issued the following statement in response to today’s Toronto Star reporting scrutinizing Alvin Tedjo’s proposed seniors’ property tax “freeze”:

“Calling a tax deferral a ‘freeze’ doesn’t make the bill disappear. Seniors still owe the money — with interest. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

“Alvin is running in his sixth election in eight years. He should know that wanting to win doesn’t justify selling a promise as something it isn’t. If seniors must pay the money later with interest, he should say so plainly.

“Experience matters. So does being honest about what we’re offering. Seniors worried about affording to stay in their homes deserve straight answers, not a misleading sales pitch.

“That’s why I’ll increase the property tax rebate to $1,000 for eligible low-income seniors and make it easier to access. It’s fair, it’s achievable and it puts help where it’s needed most.

“My plan reduces low-income seniors’ bill. Alvin’s postpones it and piles it onto the value of the home as debt, plus interest. That’s a difference seniors deserve to know.”