Council here was considering a number of options as it headed into final discussions and a public meeting on the municipality’s 2013 budget.
A report by CAO Patty Sinnamon provided to council for its March 26 budget meeting presented options for a budget showing levy increases ranging from 10 to 12 per cent.
The former option would mean a tax rate increase of 5.732 per cent to fund a levy requirement of $3.95 million. Under the 12 per cent scenario, the municipality would raise $4.05 million through taxation. In 2012, the municipality raised $3.56 million in taxation.
Under the lower increase, reconstruction and paving of the 16th line is budgeted over two years, with the unfinanced portion of $800,000.00 to be paid in 2014 utilizing the 2014 gas tax allocation and general levy.
“This option funds all projects as proposed in the initial budget with the exception of the additional accessibility upgrades at the Maryborough Community Centre. Council should engage in further discussions as to the use of this facility prior to spending additional capital dollars,” the report states.
The option also maintains the same level of contributions to reserves and reserve funds as in 2012.
Under this scenario, the average single-family dwelling assessed at $290,914.00 would see an overall increase of $38.29.
The proposed 12 per cent levy increase would include an additional $100,000 moved to reserves that could be used for various projects, including dealing with mould and moisture problems at the municipal administration building.
While estimates for dealing with the mould issues have not been completed, the report notes, “It would not be unreasonable to expect that costs would be in excess of $200,000. Council could consider increasing the contribution to reserves in anticipation of these repairs.”
A public open house on the budget was planned for April 2, with council aiming to approve the budget at its April 9 meeting.
