Prince Edward County council tackled its second day of budget discussions, December 5, 2017. (Photo: Amanda Smith/Quinte News)
There is a discrepancy between what is coming in versus what is going out.
That was the message from Amanda Carter, the Director of Finance and she told Prince Edward County council this year’s budget sees a substantial draw against the reserves as most projects are being funded by drawing on reserves.
There was plenty of discussion by councillors when it came to roads, buildings and land.
Before the day wrapped up, council decided a tried-and-true practice would be their best bet to get through the capital budget.
Mayor Robert Quaiff explained.
He said that doesn’t mean those projects are completely off the books.
Councillor Steve Ferguson told council that the solution was in fact quite simple; they either need to raise taxes or borrow money.
He said there will be a real challenge over the next couple of days when councillors get a look at the final numbers and decide what to do.
Council will, however, have more funds to dole out for community groups in 2018.
Council voted in favour of increasing the budgeted amount by just over $8,200 over last year, during day two of budget discussions.
This came after various councillor debates back and forth about whether or not the amount is increasing too much, especially since they are looking at a deficit.
Councillor Brad Nieman floated the idea of reducing the amount for community grants by “two or three per cent” as he felt $500,000 was a lot to be giving out.
The motion was defeated by council but that didn’t stop Councillor Janice Maynard from putting a motion on the floor asking for a $100,000 reduction in the community grants allocation, which was also defeated.
Mayor Robert Quaiff said to those in council chambers that he considers community groups essential services and couldn’t support a reduction.
The total amount budgeted was $511,762. Council had made $220,000 in commitments to the Prince Edward Fitness and Aquatic Centre ($90,000), the Prince Edward County Memorial Hospital ($100,000) and to the County Foundation Agreement ($30,000). There was also $20,000 set aside for doctor recruitment.
Budget discussions continue Wednesday at Shire Hall beginning at 9 a.m.
