Council considered Financial Services Department report FIN-2023-529, dated December 4, 2023, introducing the Mayor's proposed 2024 Budget.
Councillor M. Johnston advised the Mayor’s Proposed 2024 Budget is attached as an information report in accordance with legislation and timelines that were outlined during the budget process and agreed to by Council. It was noted Council was provided the opportunity to discuss the draft budget at Committee meetings that were held on November 20, 2023 and November 27, 2023 and have already provided feedback to the Mayor as part of those discussions. After reviewing the Proposed 2024 Budget, if a member of Council feels the need to put forward an amendment for consideration, formal amendments must be received by the Clerk by December 11th and will be dealt with at a December 14th Special Council meeting.
The Mayor then spoke to and proposed the City's 2024 budget and noted based on feedback from members of Council and members of the Community, the following strategic options were identified for additional funding in 2024 Traffic Calming & Trail Connections ($400,000); Arena Energy Strategy ($200,000); Playground Replacements ($300,000); Municipal Newcomers Strategy ($200,000); Cameron Heights Pool ($300,000); and, Data Strategy ($200,000).