(rdnewsNOW file photo)

By rdnewsNOW staff

DEBATE GOES AT MONTH’S END

Proposed city budget gets thumbs up from Chamber of Commerce

Nov 13, 2020 | 10:11 AM

The City of Red Deer’s proposed budget for 2021 and 2022 is getting an initial ‘thumbs’ up from the Red Deer and District Chamber of Commerce.

The chamber says a “long-time ask” has been answered with City staff proposing a zero per cent tax increase through the next two years.

The proposed budget also includes no more than a 0.5% increase to utility rates, no increase to user fees, and a 0.5% capital contribution.

“This is certainly an encouraging development that will provide much needed relief to our business sector, many of whom never fully recovered from the economic decline that began in 2014. It’s important to avoid any added cost to our businesses as we work to get through COVID-19 and the economic havoc caused by it,” commented Red Deer and District Chamber of Commerce CEO Rick More.

“Undoubtedly, this move by the city will require some tough decisions to be made and we commend their willingness to undertake this unpleasant task. We have been advocating this position for the past four years on behalf of our members encouraging Council to pursue efficiencies and reduce spending. We’re thankful they are going in this direction and look forward to the opportunity to work with them to make this a reality.”

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City council will begin debating the proposed multi-year budget on Nov. 30.