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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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Notre-Dame Cathedral Reborn: A Testament to Resilience and Restoration

 

After five years of meticulous reconstruction, the iconic Notre-Dame Cathedral is set to reopen its doors to the public on December 8, 2024. The reopening ceremony will take place on December 7, marking a significant milestone in the cathedral's history.

The fire on April 15, 2019, caused extensive damage to the historic cathedral, collapsing its iconic spire and causing significant harm to its roof, stained-glass windows, and interior artworks. Despite initial doubts and estimates that the restoration could take up to 40 years, French President Emmanuel Macron's ambitious goal to complete the reconstruction within five years has been achieved.

The restoration project, costing around $737 million, was funded by donations from 340,000 individuals across 150 countries. The project involved the efforts of 2,000 artisans and 250 companies, who worked tirelessly to restore the cathedral to its former glory. The new roof and spire have been built using 1,500 trees, including the tallest tree measuring 88 feet tall. Additionally, the cathedral's 8,000 organ pipes were cleaned and retuned, and new fire prevention systems were installed to protect the historic landmark.

Visitors will be greeted with a brighter, more vibrant interior, thanks to the restoration of intricate murals, gilded stars on ceilings, and marble statues. The cathedral's bells, which had been silent for over five years, rang out once again during a recent test, signaling the return of this beloved Parisian landmark.

The reopening of Notre-Dame Cathedral is not just a celebration of its restoration but also a testament to the resilience and dedication of those who worked to preserve this piece of history. As the cathedral reopens, it invites visitors to once again experience its beauty and significance, ensuring that its legacy continues for generations to come.



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