After much debate last night, council opted to review a one-year operating budget and three-year capital budget.
Council voted 4-3 to "focus" their time and attention on the 2009 operating budget that administration has prepared. They will not penetrate the 2010 and 2011 budgets.
The issue was renewed by Coun. Roger Lemieux who felt more comfortable with an annual spending review given the changing economic landscape. But his idea to create a brand new 2009 budget was amended (at the suggestion of Mayor Nolan Crouse) to focus on using the existing 2009 document.
Council will proceed as planned and review a three-year, 2009-11 capital budget.
The 2009 operating budget calls for $101 million in municipal spending.
Homeowners can expect an 8.97 per cent increase. Non-residential commercial and industrial businesses face a 10.47 per cent hike.
The utility budget calls for $22 million in spending, and a 9.5 per cent hike in rates.
The 2009-11 capital budget calls for $78 million in construction projects and equipment in 2009, followed by $37 million in 2010 and $21 million in 2011.
Council begins a department-by-department review of budget proposals starting next Tuesday, Nov. 4, a process that could extend to Dec. 8. The first opportunity for public input is Nov. 6.
Complete copies of the budget are available at the St. Albert Public Library (second floor in the resource room), or for purchase from city hall. A budget overview will also be posted on the city's website.
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