NOTL council looks for savings in draft budget

The first draft of the operating budget for Niagara-on-the-Lake is showing a 13.45 per cent increase over last year, but that amount is expected to come down as councillors pore over the figures in a series of workshops.

Treasurer Kyle Freeborn presented the draft budget to the finance advisory committee Monday. Over the past two years, the first draft has come in at under 10 per cent.

Councillors have participated in two orientation sessions so far. Freeborn reported that there were several opportunities discussed at those sessions that could favourably impact budget revenues.

He also noted that when the budget was prepared, there were still some items requiring updating including funding requests from Niagara District Airport Commission and the library. Freeborn said other items were missing such as an estimate for the official plan update and financing and insurance for the former hospital site that the town purchased.

Lord Mayor Betty Disero suggested a new revenue source could be renting space for vendors that promote active transportation such as bicycling at Queen’s Royal Park in the Old Town.

Coun. Clare Cameron proposed the town could also consider temporary food and beverage stands for the park.

Two budget workshops are scheduled this week. Freeborn said he expects the budget will be back before council within the first two months of the new year.

The capital budget has not been prepared yet. Freeborn reported that staff plan to have it completed in the new year following discussions with council to determine new priorities and direction.