Grimsby considers tax reduction

How a $190,000 transfer payment is dealt with could determine if the Town of Grimsby treads into unfamiliar, but very positive, ground.

Ald. Carolyn Mullins, chair of the Town’s Finance Committee, said after Monday’s budget discussions that council is looking at an initial tax increase of .07 per cent, but noted, depending on a couple of things, a two per cent decrease in the Town’s tax portion could be approved.

“We are still looking at how to deal with that (the transfer payment). We have also asked the Library Board to revisit their budget, as well as a couple of other things,” said Mullins.

Mullins noted that another factor still to be decided would be the size and scope of the proposed new Station 2 fire hall and training centre on Mountain Road, at the current Calder School site.

“We have to look at the fire department’s needs and wants. We have to get that
hammered out. What it is going to look like has not been decided,” said Mullins.

A major component of this year’s budget is the projected hiring of 8-9 new full-time staff, added Mullins.

“I can’t tell you the last time there was an increase in staff. It has been a very long time. Now is the time,” she said, citing growth in town and succession planning as two reasons.

“It is a good, responsible budget that positions us well for the future. Property taxes are a bear to us all so anything we can do to help I’m sure would be apprecaited,.”

A follow up budget discussion is expected before a completed document is set.