More funding under new fiscal framework
District of Carleton North Mayor Andrew Harvey told councillors at their April 22 meeting that the Minister for Environment and Local Government, Aaron Kennedy, has committed to providing an additional $63 million in funding for municipalities next year, which more than doubles what they got this year. The province says that by 2030, municipal amounts will increase to more than $188 million annually.
While the increase is good news for struggling local governments, Mayor Harvey said there are concerns about allocating those funds.
He explained that as provincial funding has decreased, the district’s financial demands have increased, including costs for policing, fire protection, garbage collection, recycling, recreation and tourism development mandates, and infrastructure.
“Our budget [from the grant] is very, very small. This past year it was only 2.9 per cent of our [municipal] budget comes from those funds and it has been slowly decreasing over the years,” said Harvey.
The mayor also noted the costs for policing alone increases by four to six per cent every year.
The council agreed to request a meeting with the Department of Environment and Local Government to discuss how funding amounts are being decided and ensure that the district receives a fair amount. “We need to be treated fairly by the Province,” said Harvey. “We need to lobby for what is in the best interest of Carleton North.”
Bottle drive for Carleton North High School graduates
Student Councillor Barrett Stone informed the council that local bottle depots are currently accepting donations to support the graduating class. Bottles can be dropped off at participating depots with an indication that the funds are to be donated to the Carleton North High School graduation class.
Carleton North Sports Wall of Recognition nominations open
Mayor Harvey announced that the District of Carleton North is now accepting nominations for the Carleton North Sports Wall of Recognition.
Athletes, coaches, teams, or sports contributors are eligible for nomination. The nomination form can be found on the Carleton North website at www.carletonnorth.com. Nominations close June 4.
