“Council took the time for full deliberation to give a balanced direction to the three budgets. A fire hall operations and capital review will tell us as a greater community how are services compare to similar communities.

I believe council was wise to defer some water capitol projects to allow some very significant debt repayment. Council also gave direction for a modest increase in the overall water budget which reflects an understanding that we recognize future capital and debt responsibilities.”

Ron Hovanes
Mayor

Oliver Fire Department – budget approved by council and forwarded to Rural Fire Protection District. Expenses of $359,084 in this budget category with $211,763 in contract service revenue.

General Budget will be reviewed in the new year for administration, planning, roads etc.

Sewer Budget 0 percent increase. Expenses of $950,275.

Water Budget 1.5 percent increase with a major contribution of $600 thousand from reserves to pay down on the amount of borrowing.

Rate information on water and sewer to be determined prior to the new year to fund the two utility budgets

“The Fire Department budget was approved with an additional line item of $7,500 for a service and equipment review. Staff is to prepare sewer bylaws based on a 0.00% increase.

The water budget is proposed at 1.5% increase.  Staff has been directed to reduce short term water debt.”

Heather Piotz
Deputy Finance Officer