City councillors might not wake up Christmas morning to lumps of coal in their stockings as it appears the holiday spirit may have taken hold in city hall.
While it is unfortunate council has chosen to hire even more lawyers to deal with the defamation case filed by city manager Patrick Draper, the tone by which it was done is to be recognized.
In fact, there seems to have been a dramatic shift in tone at city hall over the past month or so. The mayor and councillors have been more cordial to each other and to city staff. There seems to be a general improvement in respect all around which is refreshing. We would not expect nor want councillors to be best of friends and agree on all matters without debate, but we do expect a level of professionalism and it appears that is beginning to materialize after a long year or more of strife.
This year’s tax increase of less than one per cent is another reason to put council on Santa’s nice list this year. With economic hardship headlining across the province this year, it is good know council worked hard to not put a lot of extra burden on citizens. While everyone would prefer no tax increase, most will be relieved that they are not paying a lot more at the municipal level, especially considering increases in provincial taxes.
Taxes were kept low by chopping proposed budget items and lightening capital costs while experiencing an increase of revenue of a little more than one per cent. At the beginning of budget season the first draft of budget had a possible tax increase of nearly four per cent.
It is a notable achievement that council was able to keep the increase low while still adding services. This year’s budget includes increases to snow removal, policing hours, and the beginnings of a new branch library and arena to name a few items. It will be interesting to see if council can continue to budget prudently as to ensure those major capital and operating costs that will be realized in coming years do not result in large future increases.
It was good to see council budget for an internal auditor and a staff position that will help with budgeting for large capital projects. The increase in cost for renovations to Fire Hall No. 2 to $535,000 from $281,000 – the third project to essentially double in cost – shows those positions are sorely needed. Both positions might also save the city money in the long run.
While some will question the value of new recreation and library facilities, there has been a big community push for both. Ice and library users will both be having a happier yuletide thanks to the city’s decision. It is no secret that St. Albert needs additional arena space. There is little to no ice time left in the city and many user groups are forced into play and practice in Edmonton. If done right, the new arena space could also open the city up to bigger tournaments, which could be an economic boon.
While some may argue that libraries are outdated facilities, the reality is they still have a lot of value. Edmonton has seen an increase in library usage since it opened its new Millwoods branch. Also they are more than just about books. They are places to gather and places for self-improvement. Those who scoff that all can be done via computers and smartphones from the comfort of your own home ignore some economic realities. There are still those who are unable to afford computers or smartphones or the utility fees to stay connected. Even if they could, it is still nice to have places where people can connect in person. We are glad councillors listened to the citizens.
We hope city council can continue to work together for the betterment of the community as it achieved this budget season. That is perhaps the best Christmas present it can give the community.
