There were plenty of empty seats Monday when city council took questions on next year’s proposed budget.
About 20 residents were on hand for the meeting, billed as an opportunity to give councillors input and ask questions about the proposed 2011 operating and 2011-13 capital budgets.
Released last month, the budget calls for a 3.6 per cent municipal property tax increase for homeowners, coupled with a 9.5 per cent increase to utility bills.
Monday’s town hall was an opportunity for residents to give their two cents on how the city is spending their money. Residents can still attend future budget meetings, which take place on Nov. 18, 30, as well as Dec. 2 and 7 before the full budget is considered for approval on Dec. 20.
After a budget overview from administration, the small gathering of residents that showed up Monday pressed council on a variety of issues.
Many asked council to justify the proposed increase given inflation rose only by one per cent last year, while several questions came forward about creating a separate tax rate for condominium residents, given less reliance on city services.
Resident Andy Keller was critical of the resident satisfaction survey the city has used in budget presentations that shows residents are happy with services but unhappy with high taxes.
“I don’t think it tells us anything we don’t already know.”
Resident Stuart Loomis said he was disappointed the city portrayed the increase as 3.6 per cent when that is accompanied by an increase to utility rates.
He said ultimately both bills come out of a homeowner’s pocket.
“The bottom line for the ratepayer is what do we have to turn over to the City of St. Albert to continue to live here.”
Coun. Malcom Parker said he thought there were a lot of good questions brought forward, but he really would have like to see more faces in the crowd.
“I am always disappointed at the turnout. You hear people saying, ‘Why aren’t you consulting with us?’”
Coun. Wes Brodhead said he too would like to see more residents attend, but added council has to remain committed to the process so people keep coming.
“You would always like to have more people out here, but I think you build buy-in and commitment by doing it over time.”
He said he also understands many residents simply don’t have the time.
“If both parents are working, they get home, they spend time with their kids and then they are pooped.”
St. Albert Taxpayers’ Association president Lynda Flannery believes the low turnout could be due to the complexity of the budget.
She said going through the budget has taken her hours and it needs to be simplified so residents can ask informed questions.
“Few people have that much time to try and figure out what the budget is about.”
