LSRCA receives copy of proposed budget
by Michelle Minnoch

Kimberly Mackenzie, Executive Director of the Lake Simcoe Conservation Foundaion, presented Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority Chair Roy Bridge with a cheque for $27,950 at the January LSRCA Board Meeting. The Foundation was repaying the Authority with funds raised at the Magna Howdown, for the East Holland River project. photo by Michelle Minnoch

Mark Valcic, Director of Corporate Services, gave the Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority an update on their proposed budget, the final coming to the table in April.

"It presumes a 6% general levy increase," he said. He explained the 6% increase is due to a grid increase and general inflation. He said the 6% represents an additional $115,000; $106,000 representing a step increase, plus three per cent for the cost of living.

Valcic said they are in the process of scheduling meetings with various councils and committees regarding their budget. "In about four to six weeks, we will have an idea as to where we are in terms of funding." Valcic said right now they are processing year end, and once that is done, they can look at what they have in reserves and their deficit position.

LSRCA member Mayor Rob Grossi from the Town of Georgina said he would like to see a flat line budget. "Let's look at a flat line budget, so we have some tools we can discuss with our provincial partners. We have to let those known at the provincial and federal level that we mean business."

Vice Chair Virginia Hackson, councilor from East Gwillimbury stated her concern was that sending a message to the province from the Conservation Authority, would mean the message would be lost.

Valcic said the Authority would only ask for what was needed, and they were not in the position to ask for more. "The bulk of the operational increase is a result of a step increase, moving to a new grid, and a 3% cost of living. This organization has grown quite significantly over the past number of years." He stated that in 2006, the LSRCA spent $1 out of every $2 on operations.

East Gwillimbury Mayor Jamie Young said the Authority is one that needs to experience growth. "We provide an important service, especially this day in age. I don't like to see 6% in the grand scheme of things, but unfortunately, it's necessary."

The LSRCA is in the final phase-in of the City of Barrie entering into the LSRCA, who became a member in 2003. Valcic said between the City of Barrie and York Region, their funding comprises 80% of their budget.

"Without Barrie, we would have come back to you with something very different."

The motion for a flat line budget was defeated.