The 2020 operating budget is over a month away from passing but right now the city is looking at a 5.7% increase or about $5 million dollars more compared to last year.

North Bay Mayor Al McDonald says it’s still early days and many meetings are scheduled between now and December 12th.

He says the 5.7 % breaks down into a 2.5 % increase in capital projects

“And in that is Cassellholme. One thing that we recognized is that looking after our seniors is a priority. In that capital budget it provides financing for the re-development of Cassellholme,” McDonald says.

As well, McDonald says they’re forecasting a 2 % hike in agencies, boards and commissions funding and 1.2 % in higher city costs.

Councillor Chris Mayne also offered his thoughts on the budget.

“There are a lot of unique pressures on the municipal budget this year. There have been concerns with the cost that the agencies, boards and commissions have had to consider,” he says.

McDonald, meantime, says they’re also looking at email suggestions from the public as well as ideas from the open house that was held.

Those include a need for a bylaw officer and an innovation officer.

Council also passed a 3.3 % increase in the water and waste water operating budget.

Officials say that works out to $1.29 more a month for the average rate payer.

 

(photo by station staff)

Filed under: Chris Mayne, Mayor Al McDonald, North Bay City Council