UPDATE! THANKS FOR VOTING LIBERAL!
In 2006, the BC government introduced a hidden regressive tax targetted at visitors who support Provincial Parks. While this tax has generated more money than ever from Parks, Parks budgets have been continually slashed and staff laid off. The tax has also financially crippled the business model at Cody Caves Provincial Park. The Park has been operated by private savings for the last 3 years. Money collected from Park visitors is not returned to Parks budgets; it goes to General Revenue, like a speeding ticket. Despite continual attempts during the last 3 years to discuss matters, there has been no repsonse from the Ministry.
Currently there is no permit to operate tours and the Ministry has not come forward to enact fair business model agreements, nor to conserve the resource responsibly.
At this point - only Bary Penner, BC Minister of Environment has authority to make the required changes to open the Park for visitors once again.
Contact Barry with your concerns
barry.penner.mla@leg.bc.ca, env.minister@gov.bc.ca, localmla@uniserve.com, 1 866 553-5537
Print and mail this letter
Local Parks staff understand the issues but have no authority to override the Government policies. We sincerely hope that a new plan will make affordable family tours possible for the 2011 season, but for now Cody Caves is at severe risk of irreversible environmental damage.
Look for our facebook group page, also, where you can post photos of your cave visit, leave comments, etc.
