Dear Editor:
Re: City's appreciation dinner set for May 3, Burnaby NOW, Feb. 22.
The Burnaby NOW reported that the annual city appreciation dinner for its volunteers and those who serve on boards, committees and commissions was approved with an estimated cost of $35,000.
I think it is a very excessive amount. This will be held at the Edmonds community centre. How many people can be accommodated there? How many people are we expecting?
Even if there are 500 people, the cost per person is $70.
It would be interesting to know what will be served.
The article said that the last year's approved cost was $30,000. Did that mean there was a similar do last year where $30,000 of taxpayers' money was spent, or that the amount $30,000 was approved for this event last year and has been increased to $35,000?
I would be very interested to know the breakdown of how the money is spent.
I am a volunteer and most of the organizations I work for are too poor. Actually, I have to buy supplies and treats with my money.
I have volunteered for the city in their events, as well. I would not want the city to have such a lavish do, spending $35,000 when we have so much poverty and homelessness around us.
A simple do costing less would be more appropriate, and if the city has a lot of money, it can be channelled to a better cause.
Akash Lochan, Burnaby
