Pickering supports the troops

PICKERING -- The City of Pickering's vehicles, firefighter hats and entrances will soon display decals in support of the Canadian Forces.

At the July 23 council meeting, Ward 2 Regional Councillor Bill McLean and Ward 2 City Councillor Doug Dickerson introduced a motion to purchase the yellow ribbon stickers for provincially-licenced vehicles at a cost of $1,200 to be purchased through the current budget.

But, Ward 3 Regional Councillor Rick Johnson announced money raised from Rick Johnson's Charity Golf Tournament will cover the cost.

"I just didn't think it was appropriate for taxpayers to pay for it at this point," he said. "All the onus shouldn't be on the taxpayers every time something has to come up," said Coun. Johnson.

He added municipal leaders should look outside the box for funding when they can.

The notice of motion stated the yellow ribbon does not only represent support for military members and their families, but "it also represents the hope for a safe and speedy return from overseas deployment."

"Whether or not one supports the deployment of troops, it's another (thing) to support them abroad," Ward 3 City Councillor David Pickles said.

The motion, along with amendments to display the decals on firefighter hats and municipal entrances, was passed unanimously.