The District of Barriere held a special council meeting on Monday, Mar. 10, to go over the most recent draft of the 2014 budget.
One of the suggested adjustments that was defeated, was a motion that the salaries for mayor and council be reduced slightly. After some discussion, the vote was five against, with Councillor Sabyan and Councillor Smith voting in favour. The swaying argument was that reducing the salaries could discourage residents from entering the upcoming municipal elections.
Some cuts were approved, including reducing the amounts set aside for workshops, seminars and meals, office supplies and stationary, and the Fire Department’s general supplies and services fund. One item that was increased, was the parks, building repair and maintenance fund, which was increased from $2000 to $4000. This is due to some vandalism that occurred in the men’s washroom at the bandshell.
After making the adjustments, the draft was approved. At the Mar. 17, council meeting the council will finalize the budget by deciding what amounts will be taken from which surplus to balance it. The first three readings of the Tax Bylaw and Financial Plan Bylaw are scheduled for the Apr. 7, council meeting.