Meaford Council has reached its target of a five per cent blended tax increase — but it comes with a number of new initiatives.
Council completed its draft budget last night.
The proposed blended tax increase — with the municipal, county and education levy — is 5.27 per cent for urban residents and 5 per cent for rural residents.
But to achieve that — Council cut thousands of dollars from each department.
Council also agreed to a bag tag fee. Starting May 1st, it will cost residents 2 dollars per bag of garbage at the curb.
Deputy Mayor Mike Traynor says a number of communities have introduced bag tag fees and it will help raise 370 thousand dollars in much needed revenue.
But he also hopes residents will recycle more because of the fee.
There are a number of other budget cuts. Of note…
Council has reduced its spending by 15 thousand dollars — Traynor says they had to do something to lead by example.
No staff will lose their job this year — but raises have been capped at two per cent instead of a 3 to 5 per cent salary increase.
There will also be a hiring freeze for the next two years and some positions currently vacant will not be filled.
Traynor says they will not replace someone automatically if a staff person resigns.
Traynor says they will also conduct a major operational review of all services and staff positions in Meaford.
The Deputy Mayor says it will ensure they have the proper level of service but also look at efficiencies and duplication of jobs.
The draft budget is now open for comment and there are two public meetings.
One will be held April 7th in Meaford and the other will be held April 9th in Woodford.
Traynor notes it has been a long, tough process and staff have worked hard on this document.
He feels the tax hike is reasonable and will allow them to replenish reserves to begin necessary capital work.