Cambridge residents could see tax levy almost double come budget time - TheRecord.com

Cambridge residents could see the tax levy almost double from 2021 when budget talks commence.

In a report to city council on Sept. 14 outlining the findings of a community budget survey, it stated council directed staff to target the tax levy increase in line with the Consumer Price Index, which, with current forecasts, would see it increase between 1.7 per cent and 2.2 per cent.

For the 2021 budget, the city had its lowest tax increase in a decade at 1.27 per cent, or $17.95 for the average household.

“During preparation of the budget, staff will consider current levels of service and make recommendations as required to ensure city services are being delivered most efficiently to meet the community’s needs,” the report stated.

“All impacts from capital projects, growth and new service level initiatives will be submitted as part of the 2022 budget process for consideration by council.”

And those community needs were outlined by residents in the engagement survey.

According to the survey, with just 133 respondents – down from 510 in 2020 – those residents would like to see service reductions avoided among the city’s “external-facing services,” which includes parks, fire, roads, active transportation, and recreation and culture.

To raise revenues, 65 per cent of respondents prefer increasing existing user fees over adding new user fees or increasing taxes.

In addition, 66 per cent of respondents preferred tax rate increases at or above inflation, allowing for service levels to be maintained or enhanced. As well, 36 per cent preferred increases above inflation, and 30 per cent preferred increases at the rate of inflation.

Others offered their feedback in writing, all anonymous.

“Firstly, cut back on management salaries,” said one resident, whose comment was included in the report.

“Stop wage increases for staff for 2022 and until we recover economically. Stop waiving development fees. Stop paying so many consultants to redo reports. Stop contributing to social programs or initiatives that are not municipal responsibilities. Stop building more libraries as we have enough.

“There is so much wasteful spending that could be cut back and still offer necessary services without an added increase to fees or taxes.”

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Cambridge residents could see tax levy almost double come budget time - TheRecord.com
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