bremer wrote:
Sounds like a case of Parkinson’s law:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parkinson's_lawQuote:
He notes in particular that the total of those employed inside a bureaucracy rose by 5-7% per year "irrespective of any variation in the amount of work (if any) to be done".
I think there is another corollary to this law that says “Staff count will expand to fill the space available”. We have a new town hall and will soon have a velodrome. The Budget Call lists about 28 new positions that staff is considering for 2014.
The report says that a 5.54% tax increase, or $2,125k, is needed to maintain service at 2013 levels. How about:
- Budget surplus (over-taxation) for the past 4 years has averaged $1,426k. Disposition of 2013 surplus must be included in 2014 budget deliberations. Either provide a good forecast on the existing budget timetable, or delay finalizing the budget until a good number is available for 2013 surplus.
- That suggested tax increase includes $350k for a part year of velodrome operation. I thought the PanAm legacy fund was to cover operating cost so not to burden municipal taxpayers.
- The suggested tax increase includes $500k for “new positions” which I assume does not include the new velodrome positions. A little less please.
- There is a $648K item that includes increased contribution to the capital reserve. What is the correct level for this and all other reserve accounts? Who says? It is time for council to review the targets for reserve accounts.
- Slow the growth in transit.
- Anyone dare to consider salary controls?
- Regarding the cost of maintaining infrastructure, maybe the town has too much “stuff” to maintain. Why not sell the Bruce Street property, the building on Industrial Drive, and any other surplus property? Sell the Leisure Centre to a private operator. Maybe someone would even buy the Culture Centre and the velodrome for the right terms.
- Tinker with other cuts to find some room for dandelion maintenance.
Maybe council will suggest some of these items when the Budget Call report comes up at Monday’s meeting.