2010 Budget Approved

Collingwood Council has approved the 2010 budget. At the regular council meeting on Monday, March 8th, council voted in favour of the new budget of 72.6 million dollars, representing a 2.5 percent tax increase to Collingwood residents for 2010.

4 Firefighters Will Be Added In 2010

Collingwood Council reversed an earlier decision and approved the hiring of four new firefighters in 2010 at a cost of $123,000.00. The firefighters will be hired in July 2010.

In February, Collingwood Fire Chief Trent Elyea had been turned down by council to have four additional firefighters included as a part of the town's 2010 budget process. In speaking to council, Elyea had stated that because of holidays and sick time, only four firefighters often arrive initially at a fire and this situation doesn't allow the crew to attack the building's interior until more firefighters arrive at the scene. In addition, the chief was looking ahead to a time in the near future where he thinks an additional fire hall will be needed for the town. Elyea had advised council that it was his opinion that it would be wise to add new firefighters on a gradual basis.

Central Park and Heritage Park Projects To Move Forward

In addition to the cost of hiring additional firefighters, council will move forward with the construction of a roof over the outdoor rink at Central Park. The town's financial portion of the project is $675,000.00.

Council will also proceed with the construction of a new fitness centre and revitalization of Heritage Park at a cost of 2.94 million dollars.

Councilor Dave Labelle introduced a motion to increase the budget figure to 3 percent to allow for the contribution of more funds to the town's reserves. Labelle said that additional projects will come along and paying a little more this year would make things easier for town residents next year. Labelle's motion was defeated.

Councilor Ian Chadwick wanted voting on the budget deferred until a full representation of council could be present. Chadwick said that he felt the matter was of great importance to the residents of Collingwood and should have all councilors present for the vote to pass the final budget. His motion was turned down. Council passed the budget with councilors Foley and Edwards absent.