Budget 2020: Impacts of Provincial and Federal Decisions
Budget 2020: Impacts of Provincial and Federal Decisions

Next week, Council will be debating Budget 2020. Recently, I wrote about what we heard from the public regarding the budget. In this post, I’ll be writing about the impact provincial and federal decisions will have on the City’s budget.

There are many changes happening at the provincial and federal levels. Because of these, the City will need to make up for millions of dollars in lost revenue and increased costs between 2019 and 2020. This lost revenue will have an impact on local services and/or taxes.

Read More
Dylan Bresseybudget, policeComment
Budget 2020: Public Feedback
Budget 2020: Public Feedback

One of my biggest focuses on Council has been increasing opportunities for public engagement. As Council heads into deliberations for Budget 2020, I’ve been excited to see new efforts to involve residents.

City administration has prepared a report with what it has heard about the budget. You can read it here.

Here are the observations I’ve made from reading this report:

  • For respondents, good services are a higher priority than lowering taxes

  • Most City services are providing satisfactory results

  • People need to be shown better value for their tax dollars

  • Roads and public safety should be top priorities

  • Snow removal needs attention

  • Policing needs continued attention

Following is more information about how people were invited to engage in the budget process and expanded explanations about the take-aways I see from their responses.

Read More
Dylan Bresseybudget, police, snowComment
Affordable Housing
Affordable Housing

I've seen this CBC story floating around, with many people expressing concern: 

Housing is a very big challenge in our community, so I am glad to see it being discussed. I'm thankful this article is creating conversation.

That being said, I think there are a few things worth clarifying….

Read More
Dylan BresseyComment