Vernon residents can have their say on whether there should be a municipal tax increase in 2011. City council kicks off the budget process today and Friday with special meetings to discuss the proposed financial plan. Residents will be able to provide their input to council at about 11:30 a.m. each day. “It’s your money so get out and let us know how you feel,” said Mayor Wayne Lippert. “Last year, the public participation was a lot higher than we have seen before.” Staff has suggested that some form of tax increase is required to provide city services, but council has established a goal of a zero per cent increase. “Council is still working on zero,” said Coun. Jack Gilroy, adding that the recession has been difficult for many residents. “Talk to small businesses and a lot of them are in trouble. If we can help them, we should. I can’t guarantee zero, but we’re going to try.” Coun. Bob Spiers admits that council has a challenging process ahead of it. “I’m optimistic we’ll make the right decision and get a valid level for taxes,” he said. However, Spiers does not agree with the goal of zero per cent. “I’d like to see them lower. Anything is doable,” he said. Both meetings today and Friday will start at 8:30 a.m. in council chambers at city hall.
No comments:
Post a Comment