There’s no avoiding a tax hike for Enderby residents.
On Monday, council adopted the the 2017 budget, including a two per cent tax hike.
”We’re continuing to do capital projects and addressing what the community needs,” said Mayor Greg McCune.
The 2017 budget includes $1 million for phase one of Salmon Arm Drive upgrades and $288,602 for the hillside combined sewer separation.
McCune says capital works must be a priority if the community is to move into the future.
“We can’t sit around and do nothing. When you look across the country, the infrastructure deficit is terrible,” he said.
The tax increase translates into an additional $38 for a home assessed at $237,000.
Parking for food bank
The Feed Enderby and District Food Bank is trying to ensure its new location meets clients’ needs.
City council has agreed on a trial basis that the food bank can reserve one parking stall in front of the facility at 102 Belvedere St.
“If someone has mobility issues, it allows them easier access to the food bank,” said Mayor Greg McCune.
Actual use of the parking stall during food distribution days will be monitored by city hall.
“We are still working out the final plan for food distribution days going forward, but are currently going with a bi-monthly distribution schedule starting in June,” said Jackie Pearase, food bank secretary, in a letter.
“We expect to add more food distribution days in the future but that will be decided once patterns of usage are better identified.”