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Vancouver Budget Balances Books Without Tax Hike

Vancouver city council approved a 2026 budget, which includes a freeze on municipal property taxes. Vancouver City Council has approved a new budget that pledges no increase in property taxes, a move welcomed by many residents facing rising living costs. However, the financial plan comes with significant trade-offs: millions of dollars will be cut from arts programs, park services, and other community initiatives. City officials argue the budget reflects a commitment to fiscal responsibility while easing pressure on households. Critics, however, warn that reductions in cultural and recreational funding could erode the city’s vibrancy and limit access to public spaces. The decision highlights the ongoing challenge of balancing affordability with investment in community life. As Vancouver grows, the debate over how to fund essential services without raising taxes is likely to intensify.

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Grandmother Feared Swallowed by Sinkhole While Searching for Cat

 


Authorities are currently conducting a search and rescue mission for 64-year-old Elizabeth Pollard, who is feared to have been swallowed by a sinkhole while looking for her cat, Pepper. The incident occurred in the village of Marguerite, about 40 miles east of Pittsburgh.

Pollard's family reported her missing early Tuesday morning after she went out Monday evening to search for her cat. Her car was found parked near the Union Restaurant, and her 5-year-old granddaughter was discovered safe inside the vehicle. The sinkhole, which appeared to be new, was not noticed by hunters and restaurant workers in the area earlier in the day.

Rescue teams have been using an excavator and a pole camera with a sensitive listening device to search the area. A shoe was spotted about 30 feet below the surface, leading authorities to believe Pollard may still be in a void. The sinkhole is suspected to have been caused by subsidence from old coal mining activity in the area.

The community is holding out hope for a positive outcome as the search continues.




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