MELFORT — Melfort council is deliberating a 7.2 per cent mill rate tax increase as budget discussions continue.
Sandy Peterson, Melfort’s treasurer, explained that the actual number may be lower in the final budget, likely ready by the next council meeting in February.
Council met before the council meeting on Jan. 10 in a public committee of the whole meeting discussing the challenges and allocation of the coming fiscal year’s funds.
Within the budget, the city is discussing borrowing $4 million, which would be used to change water lines and repair the above roadway. Currently, the city loses about 12 to 15 per cent of its supply due to breaks.
“The monetary loss is seen more in the man hours to deal with the break, also the inventory and completing the work,” Peterson said. “It would be borrowing money to renew an asset so it doesn’t cause us maintenance costs and it is secure and less risk for the future.”
Other budget considerations being made includes returning positions cut during the pandemic including community services and summer students.
