Councillors agree initial tax proposal has to be lowered
By Anneleen Naudts

King councillors have a lot of work to do on their 2008 budget.

Councillors met Thursday in a special Committee of the Whole working session, and they agreed they need to significantly lower a proposed 12.4 per cent tax increase.

This figure will be revised, said CAO Scott Somerville. He stressed budget is a work in progress, and departments will work as a group to refine it and ensure a lower tax increase.

Councillors considered a memorandum from Somerville and Director of Finance and Treasurer Don Young, containing an overview of key documents provided for review and discussion. These included the draft operating, capital and library operating budgets and a 10-year capital program.

The meeting Thursday was intended to provide council an opportunity "to ask questions and advise on any additional information it may wish regarding the budget," said Somerville.

Councillors asked several questions to various staff members. The CAO advised an analysis report on reserve funds will be provided at a future meeting.

With regard to road repairs, Councillor Cleve Mortelitti requested details from the operations department on the cost of maintaining gravel roads as opposed to surface treating.

Mayor Margaret Black asked for a status report on properties owned by the Township that have been declared as surplus lands. The mayor also inquired if hybrid or low-energy vehicles are being considered, adding she would like to see a hybrid vehicle displaying the Township logo. Fire Chief Bryan Burbidge advised this is something to look into, and said these vehicles have become more affordable.

Councillor Jeff Laidlaw requested a status report on Township debentures.

They also agreed to a proposed schedule of working sessions for the budget, with meetings planned for March 6 and 20. Councillors also agreed to set April 7 as the date to finalize the budget, provided the public has been consulted ahead of time.