The son of an elderly Stoney Creek widow who had been living in a property for 40 years was automatically charged the 1 percent tax (average just under $4,000) because neither the senior or the son who lives out of town were aware of the program. Because she was on automatic tax withdrawal the city drained her bank account without her being aware creating financial hardship for the woman. Ultimately Councillor Jeff Beattie and his staff were able to get the matter reversed.