What will be in the 2021 Municipal Budget?
It’s a question that taxpayers have as the proposed operating and capital budgets will be released on January 5th.
The only knowns about the budgets revolve around a 2% tax levy. Thanks to a motion brought forward by Mayor Bill Mauro, that included not using the stabilization fund nor any previous surplus funds from both the provincial and federal governments.
At Large Councillor Aldo Ruberto says the process of laying out the Budget is all about deciding what’s best for all.
“You have to make decisions based on your knowledge, the facts [in front of you] and how you feel,” says Ruberto. “That’s the beauty of having thirteen people around the table with diverse backgrounds, work experiences and ideas on where we should be [as a city].”
Westfort Ward councillor Kristen Oliver knows there will be tough measures in the 2021 framework.
“If we’re looking at reigning in costs, it’s often service delivery that’s impacted when you consider I think it’s roughly 93% of the municipal budget that’s dedicated to wages. I think if we’re looking at reducing those costs, it likely will come with some sort of service delivery impacts,” stresses Oliver.
Meanwhile Current River Ward councillor Andrew Foulds hinted in December that he might be looking for further spending at Boulevard Lake.
“[It] looks likes there some other opportunities to add some docks, perhaps more accessible washrooms or even more storage on site. These would be budget items and certainly I’m going to see what is a priority and I may be bringing forward a resolution during budget time,” adds Foulds.
2021 Budget Key Dates
January 12th – Long-term financial overview presentation at City Council
January 14th – Public pre-budget deputation meeting at City Hall, Council Chambers
Four Council budget review meetings
January 19th, 21st, 27th and February 2nd
February 4th – Public Post-Budget Consultation
February 8th – Budget ratified by City Council
For the January 14th Meeting
- Deputation request letters are not required, but those received by the Office of the City Clerk no later than Thursday, December 17th will be printed in the meeting agenda and will be heard before walk-in speakers.
- Walk-in speakers are welcome and will be heard in the order of their arrival (a sign-in sheet will be available)
- No PowerPoint presentations will be permitted
For the February 4th Meeting
- Those interested in speaking can come forward to sign-up
- Individuals will be allowed 10 minutes to speak, and priority will be given on a first come, first serve basis
- There is no need to register in advance, and individuals can arrive any time after 6:00 p.m.
