Gas tax funds to be used for new fire hall?

Town councillors here are wondering about the best way to spend gas tax funding from the federal government.

Mayor Lou Maieron’s asked if some of the funds can be used for a new fire station construction in Hillsburgh, since the municipality does not have a transit system.

Finance director Sharon Marshall said, “Certainly what you use your federal gas tax money for is an important part of your capital budget.” She suggested a discussion at council’s next budget meeting.

Maieron noted the government approved the Keeping Canada’s Economy and Jobs Growing Act, which makes the gas tax fund a permanent annual source of funding.

Established in 2005, it provides cash to improve municipal roads, public transit, energy systems, drinking water and waste management.