The Town of Amherstburg, including council members and members of administration, were ready to talk budget last weekend.
A public budget open house was held last Saturday morning in the lobby of the Libro Centre where people could ask questions and provide their input. Town council enters budget deliberations looking to whittle down a proposed 5.3 per cent tax increase.
Frank Cerasa believed there needs to be bigger changes made to how the town does its budgeting otherwise the town will face similar challenges next year.
Attracting new industry and new residents is important, he believes, but he said he doubts the political will exists to make the changes he thinks are necessary.
While Cerasa didn’t voice a desire to get rid of any staff members, he suggested the workforce could be reduced through attrition. When a staff member retires, Cerasa suggested not immediately replacing them.
“At this point, we’re too heavy on top,” said Cerasa.
Investing in infrastructure is also important, he said, believing there is a good return on investment. Building such things as tennis courts for $500,000 is not as good, he said, as it is a “want” that can be deferred down the road. While “you can say no” to such requests, Cerasa added it can be revisited at a later date.
Rick Renaud was there to see about Texas Road, noting that he has lived on the roadway since 1980. He noted he gets tired of travelling up and down a gravel road.
Getting investment in the rural areas was important for Renaud, but “outside of that, I think they’re doing a fine job.”
Gregory Moore believed asking for more in taxes was not the way to go.
“It’s complete insanity,” he said. “It’s time for council to come to their senses. It’s out of control at the moment.”
Moore said people are going through tough times and they are being asked for more. MPAC assessments haven’t been updated since 2016 and Moore believes that will take a further toll on ratepayers.
“When people are finally reassessed, they are going to have to hold on to their pants,” said Moore. “They are going to be shocked.”
Moore added “council needs to respect the average taxpayer.” He pointed out tax bills rising just under $150 on a home of $250,000 but questioned how many homes are still valued at $250,000.
“We know there aren’t $250,000 homes that exist,” he said. “If there are, let me know and I’ll buy a few of them.”
Ranjeedh Naik said he moved to Amherstburg two years ago and wants to get further involved in the community. He said he saw a social media post by Councillor Molly Allaire promoting the budget open house and wanted to come out.
“I wanted to get involved and see what is here,” he said.
Naik said there are great amenities in Amherstburg and the money is needed to fund them. He believes he is getting good money for his tax dollars.
“I love this city and things cost money,” he said.
A public survey on the town’s “Talk the Burg” website runs through Dec. 2. The audit and finance committee will discuss the budget Dec. 2 at 5 p.m. Council will deliberate the 2025 budget will be Dec. 9 from 5-10 p.m., Dec. 10 from 9-5:30 p.m. and, if necessary, Dec. 11.
The budget is expected to be passed in January 2025.
Public has their say on the proposed 2025 town budget
By Ron Giofu
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