Phone Script

Select Your Councillor

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Introduction

• "Hello, my name is [Name] and I am a resident of [District/Neighborhood]."

• "I am calling to urge the Councillor to reject the 10.9% property tax increase recommended by HRM staff."

• "I want it on the record that I strongly oppose this motion."

Key Arguments (Choose 1-2 Bullet Points)

• The Scale of the Hike: "A 10.9% increase is more than double the rate of inflation. It is an unreasonable jump to ask of Halifax families in a single year."

• The Long-Term Forecast: "I am deeply concerned by staff forecasts showing 10% increases every year for the next four years. This is an unsustainable trajectory that will force people out of their homes."

• Cost of Living: "With the current housing and affordability crisis in Halifax, the City should be finding efficiencies to lower the burden on residents, not compounding it."

• Impact on Renters: "This isn't just a homeowner issue. A 10.9% hike will inevitably be passed down to renters, making our city’s record-high rents even more unaffordable."

The "Ask" (The Closing)

• "Will the Councillor commit to voting NO on this 10.9% increase?"

• "We need Council to send staff back to the drawing board to find a more responsible, affordable path forward."

• "Thank you for ensuring my voice is heard before the budget vote."