It seems a little rich that the District of Saanich has earmarked $200,000, plus an unknown cost for staff time, to provide incentives of up to $1,600 to buy e-bikes.
It argues that if e-bikes are made more affordable for up to 300 people, families will be able to utilize them as a climate-friendly transportation option that shrinks transportation costs, to enhance their fitness and help the environment. This pricey pilot project is the only one in B.C., and itB´ÎÔª¹ÙÍøÍøÖ·™s no wonder.
If those were truly the objectives B´ÎÔª¹ÙÍøÍøÖ·“ as opposed to greenwashing and attracting municipal votes in a run-up to a municipal election year B´ÎÔª¹ÙÍøÍøÖ·“ a lot of ordinary bicycles could be bought for $200,000.
Better still, a heck of a lot of ordinary used, completely green bicycles could be bought B´ÎÔª¹ÙÍøÍøÖ·“ without lithium batteries that need to be replaced every couple years B´ÎÔª¹ÙÍøÍøÖ·“ refurbished and then donated to needy residents.
The priority shouldnB´ÎÔª¹ÙÍøÍøÖ·™t be social engineering, but focusing hard-earned property tax dollars on improving substandard transportation infrastructure.
Stan Bartlett, past-chair
Grumpy Taxpayer$ of Greater Victoria