Moose Jaw’s proposed city budget includes 4.86 per cent tax increase

The City of Moose Jaw’s proposed budget includes a 4.86 per cent property tax increase.

The proposed increase breaks down to 3.25 per cent for municipal operations and 1.61 per cent for the Moose Jaw police service.

The proposed budget accounts for $2.5 million in revenue and a 2.78 per cent increase in operating expenditures.

“Our residents have told us that roads and water infrastructure, along with business attraction, are their top priorities and that the loss of recreation programming has been the most negative impact of the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Jim Puffalt, City Manager.

“This is the 3rd Budget that has been impacted by the pandemic. However, we’ve maintained our focus on our very successful long-term growth plans, investing in the infrastructure our residents need and the programs and services they want and need. Finally, this is the fourth consecutive year that the Budget has been built on the progress of previous years, in accordance with the guiding principles of the Budget Policy and will be presented and reviewed before Christmas.”

Operating expenditures will be used to fund multiple projects including phase seven of the water main replacement program, solid waste concept plan, and parks and recreation projects including Moose Square playground replacement, Memorial Field backstop replacement, and roof repairs and replacement at multiple facilities.

Meanwhile, there will be a number of new initiatives including a climate action plan, new pickleball courts, a parks and recreation master plan, and phase 1 of the Thunderbird viaduct rehabilitation program.

The budget also proposes a three per cent increase in water rates and a three per cent increase in sewer rates.

Budget deliberations continue Wednesday night at City Hall at 4 pm. The proceedings will be streamed live on the City of Moose Jaw’s website.