The 2021 budget is up for approval at tonight's Timmins council meeting.
Before council OKs this year's net expenditure increase, there are a few decisions they'll have to make.
The proposed net expenditure is $43.83 million, which is a $629,566 (1.46 per cent) increase over last year. That increase does not include budget increases from the agencies, boards and commissions (ABCs) that could also impact the tax levy. Approving those budgets is also slated to happen tonight.
The 2021 water and sewer rate hike was approved earlier this year and will see the average rate (based on a five-room house) increase $50 — $21 for water and $29 for sewer.
There are nine items totalling $1.2 million that council members have asked to be done in 2021 that are not included in the budget. A vote on those items will take place before the budget approval vote.
The proposed items to add to the operational budget are:
- $23,295 for permanent outdoor washroom facilities at the Connaught Community Centre;
- $2,400 ($120 per week for 20 weeks) for portable washrooms at the skateboard park;
- $52,750 to maintain the outdoor rink at the Connaught Community Centre. The agenda notes it is for two employees in the winter months and is the same cost budgeted for the Skate 8 rink maintenance;
- $20,000 to maintain the outdoor rink at Schumacher Public School;
- $336,300 for shade sails over the Hollinger Park splashpad and main children's play structure;
- $10,800 for a fulltime summer student for Schumacher clean up;
- $50,000 to upgrade the playground at the corner of Boundary Lane and Fourth Avenue in Schumacher;
- $250,000 for the detailed conceptual renovation design for the McIntyre Arena; and
- $500,000 for a program to deal with derelict houses.
If the budget is approved tonight, there would be a tax rate and ratio presentation to council in early March that would also need to be approved. The goal is to send out tax bills in early May.
The full agenda is available online here. The virtual meeting starts at 6 p.m. and can be watched online here.
