Mayor hosting pre-budget town hall Thursday night

Mayor Matthew Shoemaker is holding a combined year-in-review and budget preview address this Thursday at the Bay Street Active Living Centre.

“The budget town hall is a great opportunity for community members to speak directly to council and staff and provide input into the upcoming budget,” said  Shoemaker in a news release. “By having staff on hand to provide details on some of the significant items they are working on, residents can provide feedback on the budget and the municipality.”

The event runs from 6 to 8 p.m. 

As SooToday reported earlier this month, the city is facing a potential $13.5-million increase to its operating budget for 2024, which would mean a levy increase of 7.2 per cent.

Following his year in review address, individuals, organizations, and businesses are encouraged to provide feedback on the 2024 budget with council and staff from various departments.

“This is a chance for our community to come together in an informal and relaxed setting to exchange ideas and priorities for the 2024 municipal year,” said Malcolm White, CAO. “City staff from all areas will be available to discuss important projects and how we can maintain and develop our community. All ideas gathered throughout the consultation process will be considered as part of the 2024 budget development.”

For those unable to attend, feedback and ideas can be shared in number of ways:

Complete the online budget feedback survey at www.saultstemarie.ca/budget2024. Paper copies are available at the Bay Street Active Living Seniors Centre, Northern Community Centre, Accessibility office at the John Rhodes Community Centre, North Branch and the James L. McIntyre Centennial Library.

• Engage on social media platforms Facebook Twitter and YouTube using @CitySSM #saultbudget
• Email comments and questions to budgetinput@cityssm.on.ca
• Use the Sault Ste. Marie property tax calculator to understand tax allocations
• Call the finance department office or mail suggestions to: City of Sault Ste. Marie – Finance Department 99 Foster Drive, Sault Ste. Marie, ON P6A 5X6

This event is a come and go format and all are welcome to attend. Parking is available behind the Active Living Centre off Foster Drive.