Wellington North will see a slight increase to its Saugeen Valley Conservation Auth-ority (SVCA) levy next year.
The township paid $57,870 in 2016 and will see an increase of $696 to $58,566 for 2017. Approximately 33% of the township sits in the Saugeen conservation area.
The SVCA’s total general levy from municipalities is expected to increase by 1.4% or $22,360.
SVCA general manager Wayne Brohman presented the budget numbers at the Nov. 21 council meeting.
Brohman said in 2016, SVCA worked on implementing a policy manual, establishing an agriculture advisory committee, horse camping at Saugeen Bluffs campground, a trail system at Schmidt Lake and removal of two dams.
He added the SVCA continues to be involved in tree planting, emerald ash borer treatments, education, stewardship and flood warning.
In 2017, the SVCA plans to hire a regulations officer, update public flood warning system software, remove a dam, purchase a dump truck and all-terrain vehicle, replace computers and upgrade trails, as well as continue with general park maintenance, Brohman said.
Mayor Andy Lennox thanked Brohman for presenting the budget and joked the township cannot complain too loudly over the minimal increase.
The draft budget is to be presented at the Dec. 8 SVCA meeting for approval.
