Skip to content

Taxes going up, service levels going down (in some areas)

For the first time in recent memory, Sault Ste. Marie has approved a city budget in December, weeks ahead of the beginning of its fiscal year. Usually, a full quarter of the year passes before the budget is set.
money2
Councillors voted for a 2017 levy increase of more than four percent.

After a marathon meeting lasting more than five hours tonight, Sault Ste. Marie City Council approved a 2017 budget with a 4.34 per cent levy hike.

And the actual increase paid by ratepayers could be higher than that, because the District of Sault Ste. Marie Social Services Administration Board (DSSMSSAB)  has yet to finalize its budget and any DSSMSSAB levy increase will also be added to city tax bills.

In recent years, councillors have waited until April to set the municipal budget, but this year they got to work early so the budget changes can be implemented from the beginning of the city's fiscal year, Jan. 1.

The 2017 budget approved tonight contains some significant service cuts.

Additional coverage of the 2017 budget will be posted on SooToday tomorrow morning.


What's next?


If you would like to apply to become a Verified reader Verified Commenter, please fill out this form.




David Helwig

About the Author: David Helwig

David Helwig's journalism career spans seven decades beginning in the 1960s. His work has been recognized with national and international awards.
Read more