The City of Barrie 2018 budget received its final stamp of approval tonight as councillors praised staff on their hard work for drafting it up.
The approval of the 2.75 per cent tax increase will be directed toward the growth of the city and will help with the many infrastructure issues that are due now and will be soon. A 1 per cent increase for the Dedicated Infrastructure Renewal Fund which takes care of roads, bridges, and buildings around town. The remaining 1.75 per cent of the increase is actually lower than inflation, but is needed for increased costs with service partners and the city itself. Mayor Jeff Lehman was very happy with the budget and sees great balance in what has been done.
"This is a lean budget," said Lehman. "But our staff and council have managed to develop a budget that still focuses on improving the quality of our services. I believe we've struck a balance between the need to continue investing in the bridges, roads and other existing infrastructure to maintain our modern community, while planning for future growth. This balance minimizes the total increase to the taxpayer while allowing our city the resources to address our growth."
Councillor Steve Trotter was very impressed with the work by staff and feels that the budget is great from the standpoint that there are no real cuts or major increases, but admits that issues will be coming as the city gets bigger.
"Absolutely I am happy with what we have accomplished here as a council and with staff," said Trotter. "I would like to say though that we need to watch what we do going forward because while growth will help in many areas, with growth comes more cost. On paper we may look good right now but only remaining careful can keep us that way."
The Capital Plan is for $312.6 million with money from that going to the Harvie Road crossing, widening Mapleview Drive East and the city's resurfacing program. Resurfacing or renewal plans are in store this year for much needed areas like Bayfield, Anne and Henry streets as well as Huronia Road and McKay Road. Funding for the Barrie-Simcoe Emergency Services will also be taken care of through this budget.
The continued push from the City of Barrie to making the city more technologically sound is also being addressed with the most recent example being the the new Plow Tracker app which allows residents to track the progress of winter maintenance around the city. Parks and recreational areas will also be updated with a council amendment being approved to direct $15,000 toward adding many tables, benches and play tables (chess) to the waterfront.
