Centre Hastings is aiming to pass its 2024 budget in mid-January.
Council received the Draft Budget last week featuring an $8.7 million Operating Budget and $5.1 million Capital Budget.
Director of Finance Alexander Kelly says while it is a challenge in a year of high inflation, Centre Hastings remains committed to meeting minimum service delivery expectations, enhancing resident life satisfaction, attracting and retaining new residents, and creating an environment for local business growth and stability all while addressing the infrastructure deficit.
Council approved a new Asset Management Plan in October 2023 to help address the infrastructure deficit.
The Draft Budget contains a seven per cent Cost of Living Adjustment for staff.
Kelly says this represents some catching up as a result of a few previous year increases that did not match the rate of inflation.
He notes Centre Hastings, like many municipalities faces recruitment and retention challenges and a strong strategy includes fair, comparable and competitive wages.
Council is scheduled to meet again on January 17.
