THE CORPORATION OF THE CITY OF ENDERBY

Minutes of a Public Meeting of Council held on Monday, April 3, 2006 at 6:15 p.m. in the Council Chambers of City Hall.

Present: Mayor Phillips
Councillor Beryl Ludwig
Councillor Earl Shipmaker
Councillor Dee Wejr

Treasurer Geri Ferguson
Recording Secretary Bettyann Kennedy
The Press & Public


PUBLIC AND STATUTORY HEARINGS

2006 Financial Plan

Mayor Phillips welcomed members of the public and invited questions regarding the 2006 Financial Plan.

Will Fournier of 9 Preston Crescent asked what specific expenditures have resulted in the increase of over $200,000.

The Treasurer summarized that there has been a change to the Planning contract resulting in a $55,000 increase; Economic Development expenditure; transportation costs which cover Community Wildfire Protection, Operational Fuel Management and Joint Creation Projects; and new fire truck deposit.

Councillor Shipmaker noted that not enough monies have been set aside in reserves for the rebuilding of streets.

Mayor Phillips stated that the tax increase this year is 5.44%. The increase in property assessments will impact the overall taxes paid.

Mr. Fournier made reference to the published article by Councillor Shipmaker which left the impression that the tax increase is a result of the assessment increase. Councillor Shipmaker explained that the assessments are the basis for the tax calculations as taxation is based on this figure. It was not his intention to imply that a tax increase is only a result of assessment increases.

John Hunt of 150 Riverdale Drive asked what impact the budget will have on a home assessed at $100,000.

The Treasurer stated that the tax rate is $0.2145 per $1,000 assessed value.

Councillor Shipmaker explained that if assessments remain constant, the result is a very small increase to property owners. However, assessments have increased this year.

Mayor Phillips reminded the public of the increase of $100 to the home owner grant.

There were no other questions from the public.

ADJOURNMENT

The Public Input Meeting adjourned at 6:25 p.m.

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MAYOR ADMINISTRATOR