It is important for everyone to realize the positive impact that the condominium developments have in the town.

Unit owners purchase condominiums the same as other individuals purchase non-condo properties. After purchase they are required to pay taxes, insurance, utilities etc. In addition there is what is referred to as a common element fee - a monthly fee to the condo corporation to pay for things such as street lighting, management fees, grass cutting, snow removal, street plowing, garbage collection, hydrant maintenance etc.

Not everyone realizes that each condo unit pays exactly the same taxes as a single family dwelling of the same value located on any given street.

Also remember that in a subdivision, the town would have to foot the bill for snow removal, street living and garbage pickup making the net result of the taxes even lower. The town pays nothing towards the basic services for the condominium owners. So where are these extra funds going?

Collingwood should be thankful that so many tax dollars are generated through these developments. Also keep in mind that a large majority of these owners are part-time residents, so they don't have the same burden on the town as full-time residents.

Each condominium development only enhances our local economy.

There is currently a request before the town council that they deal with condominiums in a fair and equitable manner. Taxes are paid, therefore services should be received or adjustments made to the tax system.

There should never be a distinction between a condominium owners, and a homeowner - because there is none.

Both pay taxes based on the same criteria. There is no tax break for condominium owners.

Distinctions in homeowners' rights only creates a society with a 'second class' category.

Is that what Collingwood really wants?

Cindy Gretton, E&H Property Management.