Balanced budget and no tax increase in Bathurst for second consecutive year
Bathurst City Council completed its’ budget exercise and approved the city’s budget for 2018 at Monday night’s special Council meeting. The 2018 General Operating Budget is established at $24,788,525 and the Utility Operating Budget is established at $6,657,215. “Our commitment was to maintain zero increase in the City’s tax base and zero increase in sewerage costs. We are proud to announce that we have successfully accomplished this for the second consecutive year, this with less revenue from unconditional grants. At the same time, the 2018 Budget exercise allowed to build the City’s Reserve Fund to approximatively $267, 000. This will allow for contingencies as we continue to invest in Infrastructure projects.” said Mayor Paolo Fongemie. Investments will continue in Park maintenance and upkeep, specifically for Youghall Beach, the cornerstone of the City’s summer tourist season. There will also be continued emphasis on repair and maintenance of roads, sidewalks and storm sewers. With the recent renewal of the City’s Organizational structure, new emphasis will also be directed at municipal and economic growth strategies. “We congratulate City Management and staff for their commitment towards efficient management of finances and resources while also being able to maintain our operations while we look forward and build Bathurst’s future with optimism”, continued Mayor Fongemie.