City Hall budget talks start Tuesday

“We have many contractual obligations. The RCMP contract is another that has a significant impact on our operating budget.”

Whiteway says they have been doing things to mitigate inflation.

“With our procurement practices and such, we’re able to be as competitive as possible, but it definitely will be impacting future budgets.”

Mayor Jackie Clayton says there are tough decisions to be made.

“I think that across the province and across the country, we’re seeing communities make tough decisions. Right now this budget, through our operational expectations would be at approximately a three per cent increase.”

“On top of that, there are community groups and expectations and organizations that have come to council looking for support that were referred to this budget for deliberation.”

Clayton says there is always a chance the three per cent number could come down.

“There’s less of a chance from my opinion in reviewing the budget in reducing the operations per se. There is always a chance of reducing the capital asks, but it’s always a fine balance.”

“You want to be able to add new amenities to your community while at the same time, keeping the expected service levels to a point where people are still happy to live in your community, they’re still proud of what your community offers.”

Clayton says she is “optimistic council will settle at a number the community is OK with,” and adds nobody wants to see taxes increase.

Budget talks are scheduled to run through Thursday.

by Curtis Galbraith

City Hall budget talks start Tuesday

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