Tom Adams

March 30, 2002

Letter to the Toronto Star editor:

Re: "Toronto’s out-of-sight Hydro kitty," March 30, 2002.

Your reporter, John Spears, has done by far the best, most sustained job of any member of the Ontario press corp following the consumer elements of Ontario’s electricity restructuring. His latest contribution, following Toronto’s hidden tax increases buried in our new higher electricity bills, should raise serious concerns about the prospects for municipal democracy. Municipal politicians across Ontario can now raise funds by indirect means, through higher electricity rates. Taxpayers had a tough enough time keeping our local politicians accountable back when municipal funds came only over the table through property taxes. When municipal politicians offer free lunches, check for hidden taxes collected on your electricity bill.

Tom Adams, Executive Director
Energy Probe

To read the Toronto Star article, "Toronto’s out-of-sight Hydro kitty," by John Spears, please click here.