Milton District Hospital Part #2: "Show Me The Money"

I was at Milton Council meeting last night and they had a presentation by Halton Health Services on the expansion project at Milton Hospital.  They're calling for a full-service expansion on the Milton site they hope will be the same level as the new Oakville Hospital.  The presentation backed a motion proposed by Councillor Cindy Lunau, part of which deals with raising money reads: "including a special tax levy on the municipal property bill in the 2011 budget considerations." 

In their presentation, and when pressed afterwards they didn't say exactly how much they need; they couldn't because of the tendering process going on with the Oakville site.  I understand, but it made me uneasy.  I thought; you're here, asking for my money, and can't tell me how much you want- or really for what you want it for? other than the idea it's going to be for a "full-service hospital". It struck me as a little odd to say the least.  I would've liked to see a range.

Halton Health Services (HHS) is planning 10 years in advance.  Five years from now the new Oakville hospital will be finished- so we're looking at possibly 2020, or later.  Given the 10- year planning schedule, all variables including the possibility of switching governments mid-stream, why don't we take a step back? I know... we need the hospital now. You really won't get much argument from me on that, after all town isn't getting smaller. But shouldn't we at least take our time, and have a long look at how much this is going to cost- how long are we going to see this possible charge on our property tax bill?

Another problem with this is the province; they are the final judge on healthcare. Potentially after all this fundraising they could still say no.  There are other places competing for the same money- yes, Milton is the fastest-growing municipality in the country and that should count for something.  But in a province that is cash strapped, and seeing  a year-long infrastructure audit the possibility of a "no" answer exists... even though I've been told by sources that failure in getting the expansion done, simply isn't an option.

The province could also say "yes," but scenario.  The but could place limits on the expansion in terms of departments.  Yes, you can have your expansion- but only with the ER, Maternity, and  some day surgeries.  Everything else should go to Oakville.

I completely agree that we need an expanded hospital- the population of Milton is nearing 100,000.  But don't we owe it to future and current residents that we achieve it, in a financially responsible way?  Let's take a step back, get more information and look at our options.  More information never hurt anyone.