Divisions are still evident over the City of Vernon’s 2011 budget.
In a 5-1 vote Monday, council gave final approval to the financial plan which includes a 0.24 per cent increase in property taxes.
“We went through it in detail and got public input. I think it’s a good budget,” said Coun. Shawn Lee.
Lee expressed frustration when Coun. Bob Spiers indicated he would vote against the budget but he encouraged his colleagues to do so because of legislated time lines.
“You can always vote against something when you know the rest of council is going to vote for it,” said Lee.
Spiers believes a tax decrease could have been possible.
“We could have done better,” he told the rest of council.
“I’ve never seen a city budget yet that I’ve liked. We could have done better.”
Mayor Wayne Lippert also disagreed with Spiers’ approach to the budget.
“You could always look to do better but council worked hard to improve the budget process,” said Lippert.
Lippert believes the budget provides a balance between operating the city and recognizing the challenging financial times facing many residents.
“The services are there and all major infrastructure infrastructure projects are being looked after,” he said.
Coun. Jack Gilroy was absent from Monday’s meeting.
