Crozier outlined the operating budget, including plans to maintain gravel roads around the township.
Notable was that arena usage remained down due to the pandemic.
“The demand for arenas has not returned to what it was pre-COVID, but we hope it will return in the fall.” he said.
“The General Government shortfall is 1.3 million.” Crozier said. “The majority of offsite service fee is offset by curbside pickup.”
Protective Services reliance on the levy as 1.757,040., Transportation services required $3,139,440, environmental services required $42,210, Recreational and Cultural Services required $787,485, and Planning and Development required 276,770.
Dave Mackay also criticized the airport’s inclusion in the budget. “The airport is mainly used by the army, airforce, which is already paid for. They should be paying for it.”
“I can’t disagree with you, I don’t have an opinion on it.” Crozier said.
“Hydro one also uses it.” Councillor Jackson said. “The police uses it to bring in special forces. Economic development uses it; small jets can land.”
“The army doesn’t use it a whole lot and they do donate for it.” Jackson said. “Businesses that have hangars there do donate. There are fundraisers there. I’m not willing to give it up. It’s going to take 2 days for special forces, I’d rather have it take an hour.”
Councillor McLaughlin: “I totally agree with Councillor Jackson. There are a lot of benefits that aren’t shown. MR use it to fight forest fires.”
“This is good direction for us, this is not the only kick at the can.” CAO Trembley said, saying that the budget would be revisited again after revision on November 24th.
