Quinte West municipal office (File photo: Nicole Kleinsteuber)
Quinte West council will take a first hand look at its proposed $23 million capital budget for 2017 when it meets for a special meeting Monday night.
Big ticket items for consideration include $18 million in city projects such as a new $7.8 million fire hall, $5 million for roads and $1.8 million in funding applications. The city has filed for four specific funding applications under the Ontario and Canada 150 grants including: Batawa Community Centre kitchen and parking upgrades, Old Town Hall upgrades, Centennial Park hardball field and lighting and waterfront trail expansion through the marina property.
Other city items worth noting include cameras and design work for a new police station, public works equipment, the replacement of two Quinte Access buses, facility and arena upgrades.
Additional items include $2.83 million proposed for water projects and $1.9 million for sewer.
Director of Corporate and Financial Services David Clazie said as it stands now there would be no tax increase for rate payers but if council adds line items there is the potential.
Last year staff had suggested a 1% capital tax levy which would generate $450,000 of new money every year. That could give council some cushion to add items tonight.
Quinte West Mayor Jim Harrison said council could approve the budget tonight or ‘throw the baby out with the bath water’.
Quinte West council meets at 6 p.m. at City Hall.
