City’s $179 million budget approved by council
Council has approved the city’s $179 million operating budget for this year.
It includes a 3.95% increase to the tax levy.
The city says for the average homeowner, the approved increase amounts to about $9.92 per month, or $119 a year.
Property taxes for 2026 are based on 2016 assessments, with the average North Bay home valued at $227,000.
Eight councillors supported the operating budget, including Mac Bain.
He urged his fellow councillors who sit on provincial municipal associations to continue to advocate for funding.
“Much of the pressure on this budget is being driven by factors outside the municipal control,” he says. “Particularly the rising cost of policing, social services, mental health supports, homeless and addictions.”
The city’s nearly $83 capital budget was also approved.
“Major areas of focus include road reconstruction and rehabilitation, water and waste water system upgrades, parks, recreation and facility improvements, fleet life cycle replacement, and technology and system modernization,” says Deputy Mayor Maggie Horsfield.
Key projects include:
- Redevelopment of Cassellholme Home for the Aged
- Construction of a second watermain feeding the Ellendale Reservoir
- Asphalt resurfacing
- Replacement of the Premier Road pumping station
- Realignment of the Laurentian Avenue intersection
- Additional improvements along Trout Lake Road
Richard Coffinhttps://www.mynorthbaynow.com/ Richard Coffin has been a reporter and news anchor on the radio in North Bay for over 25 years. From premiers to people in the neighbourhood, he enjoys connecting with newsmakers and writing stories that matter to area listeners on a variety of topics including healthcare, education, politics, sports and more.
