SASKATOON: Mayor Charlie Clark is calling for a new funding model for Canadian cities, stating that the current reliance solely on property taxes is outdated. Her comments come as the City Council prepares to debate the highest property tax increase in the city’s history, a proposed hike of 8.23%.
Mayor Block argued that the current method, which heavily depends on property tax revenue, is obsolete. She urged all cities across the country, provinces, and the business community to unite in securing a new financial agreement.
Block explained that approximately half of the proposed 8.23% increase for this year is attributable to the rise in the police budget. She confirmed her support for the police budget increase, citing escalating safety concerns in the city.
However, the Mayor expressed reservations about other fiscal matters. She stated her disagreement with the idea of introducing a specific fee to address homelessness and voiced concern over the growing number of people experiencing homelessness. Furthermore, a proposed $8.6 million low-cost housing initiative was not included in the preliminary budget. Mayor Block also opposed suggestions to reduce hours at city recreation centers as a cost-saving measure.
Meanwhile, the North Saskatoon Business Association (NSBA) communicated that the local business community is deeply concerned about the significant increase in the police budget and its impact on the overall property tax rate.
