The city says its making an attempt to make your taxes more affordable in its budget process. It approved a plan last night not to spend an extra million on the capital side of the budget. Budget chief Sean Lawlor says that works out to a tax bill that is 1.36 per cent less than it would be if the million dollars was spent. He says three projects have been postponed including IT infrastructure and two pathway jobs at King’s Landing and from Nipissing University to the Regional Health Centre. He says all of council supported his motion and that’s a good sign as council understands that there are economic challenges in the city that people are facing. He says all options are on the table in the upcoming operating budget process.  

The issue of flooding on Ferguson Street in North Bay is no secret and city council believes it has taken a major step in addressing the problem. It has issued 4.8 million dollar tender to reconstruct the street. Mayor Al McDonald says the flooding has been ongoing for half a century and work should start soon with the idea to finish the project by next May. The actual contract calls for it to be done by October of next year .Meantime, council has approved a three contract with the North Bay and District Humane Society. It takes in the 2013-2015 years. McDonald says the humane society does a great job but there are some concerns with some of the services they provide and they will be addressed.

written by bob.coles@northbayradio.rogers.com