The beginning of a new year is an appropriate time to look ahead to the year coming and to look back on 2021.
As I reflect, it seems that a lot of things from 2021 will continue on into 2022. COVID had the biggest impact on all of us last year and will continue for some time in the new year. Please be patient, stay safe and be healthy.
In December 2021, we adopted the 2022 budget with a property tax increase of 2.96 per cent, which is less than current inflation. This includes 0.75 per cent dedicated to infrastructure repair and improvement. Council also took a hard look at projected spending on future projects and reduced our forecasted debt level considerably.
In Ward 1, during 2021 there was considerable discussion about absentee landlord licensing and how to improve some of our neighbourhoods that are affected by deteriorating properties and unlicensed boarding, lodging and rooming houses. In the end council approved four more enforcement officers to proactively enforce our existing property standards bylaw. This new initiative is expected to be operational by the spring of 2022 and we look forward to seeing how effective it will be.
A consultant has been hired to develop a more comprehensive vegetation management strategy for the North Shore Trail. It will look at improving the native tree canopy, managing invasive species, reducing erosion and improving pollinator habitat. A public meeting to discuss the findings will be held in the near future and we hope to implement improvements this year.
The city’s new Official Plan has been underway for three years and will be presented for approval by council in the near future. This is an important document that will govern how the city will grow and develop in the coming years. We are preparing for significant growth and intensification. The draft document is on the city’s website and your comments are always welcome.
The mayor’s three task forces focusing on the west end precinct, affordable housing and the performing arts centre have been working hard since June and will be reporting in January. I have been involved with the performing arts task force and am very pleased that this important initiative is moving forward.
So 2021 was a year that saw a lot of progress on many fronts and 2022 will see many of these initiatives brought to a conclusion.
Happy New Year to you all!
Coun. Clare Riepma represents Ward 1 in Barrie.
