The opportunity for the public to provide feedback on the 2026 city budget was one that most chose to forego Tuesday night, as attendance in council chambers was poor at best. Only a small handful of citizens attended the meeting, and Angela Lochtie, City Treasurer, who delivered the budget, said that only 200 residents completed a recent online survey about it.
Lochtie shared some of the feedback from those who did take the time to complete the survey and noted common themes in many of the responses.
Backlash over increased taxation was a recurring theme, as was the notion that recreational services should be cut back or cancelled outright before council considers tax increases. One 33-year-old father’s response reflected a broader concern shared by many regarding this budget:
Among those who responded to the survey, 42% were dissatisfied, 37% were neutral, and 20% were satisfied. Respondents also expressed opinions about service levels and taxation saying that 40% would vote to reduce services in favor of lower taxes, 27% would support raising service costs if needed, and 15% would increase services even if it meant higher tax rates.
Karen Walsh, no stranger to public budget meetings, raised several concerns, including the suggestion that marginal increases in user fees for recreational services might help offset higher tax increases down the road.
The overall response to this year’s budget, based on the minimal public turnout and limited survey participation, might be considered lukewarm at best.
(Written By: Richard Evans)