City Hall looking for input on next year’s budget

A public input session will be held Dec. 17 at City Hall for anyone who wishes to speak to Sarnia’s 2019 operating budget. As it stands, the city is looking to increase spending to $145.2 million next year, a rise of 2.98%.

A public input session will be held Dec. 17 at City Hall for anyone who wishes to speak to Sarnia’s 2019 operating budget.

As it stands, the city is looking to increase spending to $145.2 million next year, a rise of 2.98%.

If no changes are made, that would result in a property tax increase of 3.72%, adding another $34 to the tax bill on a home assessed at $100,000.

The proposed spending package includes rate increases of 3.17% and 3.66% on water and sewer charges.

Most of the budget’s additional expenses are accounted for by three things: a new and more expensive recycling and compost contract beginning next year, higher staff wages and increased police spending, according to a report from Finance Director Lisa Armstrong.

Anyone wishing to provide input on the budget or grants at the Dec. 17 public meeting should register in advance with the city clerk.

Council is expected to set the budget in January.