April 7, 2009 
The Honourable Colin Hansen Minister of Finance Rm. 153 Parliament Buildings Victoria, BC V8V 1X4 
Dear Colleague: 
I recently met with members of the Saturna Island Property Owners Association (SIPOA) regarding the Federal government's approach to the assessment and payments in lieu of taxes for park lands on Saturna. 
SIPOA has determined that the federal government is not paying their fair share for the park that comprises half of Saturna Island and in so doing directly affecting the taxation level of property owners and also impacting on the province's ability to provide essential services on Saturna. I have attached a spreadsheet listing the properties and amounts that have been billed under PILT for the National Park Reserve in the Gulf Islands and the amounts received. You will note that there is a substantial discrepancy. 
I am writing in support of my constituents on Saturna Island and urge the provincial government to press forward in their appeal of the federal government's assessment of lands in the Gulf Islands National Park. 
Sincerely yours, 

Murra Coell, MLA Saanic North and the Islands 
Cc: SIPOA Gary Lunn, MP